Despite some blind spots, a satisfactory budget
Despite a difficult budgetary context, Réseau FADOQ has been heard.
The Québec government’s budget brought good news for disability pensioners. As of January 1, 2025, the pension reduction for disabled seniors aged 65 and over will be abolished. This was one of our long-standing demands, since we felt that these penalties, currently imposed on 77,000 people, amounted to discrimination on the part of the State.
“The Québec government is doing the right thing by putting an end to these penalties, both for current and future beneficiaries,” said Gisèle Tassé-Goodman, President of Réseau FADOQ.
Québec’s largest organization of people aged 50 and over had also called for healthcare investments to reinforce the workforce and the shift towards homecare. This budget meets expectations in this respect, containing $3.7 billion over five years for the healthcare network.
Investments will be made in staffing, additional beds and more efficient care delivery, including paperwork reduction. This money will also be used to enhance the provision of home care services.
“Seniors want to live at home for as long as possible. Réseau FADOQ insisted on increased investment in this area, as too many people are waiting for their first service,” commented Ms. Tassé-Goodman.
Yet to be addressed
Although the budget is satisfactory, two points remain unaddressed.
First, the government reiterated its intention to withdraw from the Canadian Dental Care Plan and obtain full, unconditional financial compensation from the federal government. Seniors’ enthusiasm for this dental plan is indisputable. The Québec government therefore needs to send a signal that it will reinvest the sums associated with its withdrawal in dental care.
Secondly, Finance Minister Éric Girard announced a review of government spending.
Réseau FADOQ is fully aware that Québec is facing a difficult economic situation and that certain expenditure items may need to be reviewed. However, it is vital that seniors do not bear the brunt of this exercise, especially those who are among the most vulnerable in our society.
Other positive measures
The budget also includes $15 million to reinforce the Curateur public’s work to prevent and detect abuse of people under private guardianship by 2029. Abuses have been noted in recent years. The government recognizes this and is deploying more resources to help the Curateur public fulfill its mandates.
This budget consolidates investments, particularly in housing allowance and adapted transport, essential measures for the most vulnerable.
