Campaign 2000 Welcomes Liberal Party Plan to Reduce Poverty

Toronto, 14 Nov 07

Campaign 2000, the cross-Canada coalition working to end child and family poverty, welcomes the federal Liberal Party commitments on poverty reduction announced by Liberal Leader Stéphane Dion in a major policy speech on November 9.“We have called on all federal parties to commit to a minimum target for reducing child poverty, so we’re very pleased to hear Stéphane Dion respond with a bold commitment to a 50% reduction over 5 years,” said Ann Decter, National Coordinator of Campaign 2000. “He is most welcome to join us in the long war on poverty.”

“The proof, of course, is in the pudding,” said Ms. Decter. “In his speech, Mr. Dion graciously invited advocates to hold his feet to the fire on these commitments. Campaign 2000 partners will continue to advocate with all parties for implementation of promises to address poverty, as we have done since the 1989 unanimous House of Commons resolution to end child poverty.”

Mr. Dion acknowledged Campaign 2000’s work in his November 9th major policy speech in Toronto, and committed the Liberal Party to Campaign 2000 recommendations to increase both the Canada Child Tax Benefit and work income tax credits and to restore the Kelowna Accord. He also committed to a 30% reduction in the poverty rate for all Canadians over five years.

“Campaign 2000’s partners across the country will keep working to urge all political parties to set ambitious targets and timetables for poverty reduction,” said Ms. Decter. “We also need to ensure that the federal government preserves the capacity to make the public investments needed in income supports, child care, and affordable housing. Canadians are smart and public-minded, they know governments need money to spend on the services we all use, share and value.”

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Contact: Ann Decter, National Coordinator, Campaign 2000 – – tel: 416-595-9230x 228