“Seniors – What a way to say thanks” leaflet

Increased taxes and fees, cuts to seniors’ centres and the end of rent controls were part of the 1983 budget which caused grave concern among older British Columbians.

Transcription:

SENIORS
What a way to say thanks
The people who worked, raised families and made British Columbia what it is today are getting their reward. The provincial government is saying thanks with cuts in seniors’ incomes, higher costs and taxes, and fewer services. Seniors’ income is being reduced through elimination of the Personal Income Tax Credit, as well as the Renter’s grant. Disposable income also cut thanks to higher sales taxes, higher health care user fees, and a freeze on rental assistance under the SAFER program. Increased hospital charges — $8.50 a day for acute care and $12.75 a day for extended care – hit particularly hard at seniors. New legislation opens the door to even higher health care user fees, penalizing people because they happen to be sick. (Please turn over) Seniors lives will be further impoverished through the elimination of grants to 23 seniors’ centres. As well, grants to community groups providing volunteer services have been cut. The end of rent controls will mean higher housing costs for many. An increase in rents that were previously controlled will leave some seniors with about $3 a day for expenses rather than shelter. Like others, seniors will be subject to eviction without cause, and stripped of the protection against discrimination formerly provided by the Human Rights Code. It’s a poor way to say thanks. Speak Out! Stop the attack on seniors. Sign the petition.
[logo] SOLIDARITY COALITON
For more information, contact the Solidarity Coalition office, 686 W. Broadway Vancouver, B.C. V5Z 1G1 Telephone 873-6322