The Nova Scotia Action Coalition for Community Well-Being is advocating for the support of Bill C-223, An Act to Develop a National Framework for a Guaranteed Livable Basic Income. We believe that this bill has the potential to make a significant difference in the lives of millions of Canadians living in poverty, and we urge Members of Parliament to support it when it is tabled in the House of Commons.
First, let’s clarify what a guaranteed livable basic income is and how it differs from a universal basic income. A guaranteed livable basic income would be available only to those whose income falls below a livable level, whereas a universal basic income would be accessible to everyone regardless of their income. In this way, a guaranteed livable basic income is more targeted and similar to programs like the combined Old Age Security and Guaranteed Income Supplement for seniors.
A guaranteed livable basic income could provide much-needed support to people who are not currently being served by other programs, such as Employment Insurance or the Canada Workers Benefit. It would target working-aged adults, most of whom likely rely on social assistance or have no income at all.
We must recognize that millions of Canadians are living in poverty without adequate support or a way out. Existing social assistance programs are often insufficient, demeaning, and punitive, leaving many individuals trapped in deep poverty. The ongoing crises of inflation, lack of affordable housing, and intersectional barriers of exclusion and inequity only exacerbate these challenges.
A guaranteed livable basic income has the potential to change lives. Experiences from those who transitioned from social assistance to OAS and GIS or participated in Ontario’s short-lived basic income pilot demonstrate the life-changing impact of having a reliable income source. Many return to school or become more engaged in their communities, ultimately leading to a better quality of life.
Support for a basic income is growing across Nova Scotia, with municipalities such as Halifax Regional Municipality, Pictou County, and Annapolis County expressing their support. Over 40 organizations and 320 individuals have signed the Basic Income Atlantic Canada consensus statement, and the Senate has recently voted in favor of Bill S-233, the companion to Bill C-223.
It is time for us to come together and work towards a future where no one is left behind, and everyone can live with basic dignity. Supporting Bill C-223 is a crucial step towards achieving this goal and fulfilling Canada’s commitment to Agenda 2030 and the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
We encourage you to join the conversation and advocate for a guaranteed livable basic income by supporting Bill C-223. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of millions of Canadians.