MPs return to Parliament after six-week break
Posted January 30, 2012 9:56 pm.
This article is more than 5 years old.
OTTAWA – The Prime Minister spent the first question period of 2012 defending his government’s plan to reform Canada’s pension system, Monday.
The opposition did not letting up on the attacks after Stephen Harper announced he is considering making changes to the frame work. The changes may include increasing the eligibility for old age security.
It did not take long for accusations of hypocrisy and dishonesty to fly around the House of Commons.
Interim Liberal leader Bob Rae pointed out during the election the Harper said he would not touch payments to individuals.
“Is the Prime Minister committed to sustaining seniors or is he committed to breaking his election promises and breaking faith with the people of Canada?” asked Rae.
NDP’s Peter Julian called it a slap in the face to seniors.
“Seniors can’t trust this government. If the Prime Minister was so concerned about cutting (Old Age Security) why didn’t he say anything about it during the election? Why did he hide his agenda during the last election campaign?” said Julian
Harper counters saying that voters gave him a mandate to eliminate the deficit while making sure these services continue.
“There are demographic realities that threaten the viability of these programs. Over the longer term, we will make sure that these programs are funded and viable for the future generations that will need them,” said the Prime Minister.
The government is still working on the plan but hinted that the changes will not take effect for at least another ten years. They are looking for cuts between $4 billion and $8 billion.
NDP House Leader Joe Comartin told 680News Canadians will feel the impact, from pensions to health care.
“The average Canadian, it’s the reduction in both services available and certainly the quality of services that are available,” Comartin said.
But Conservative House Leader Peter Van Loan said isn’t about slashing services, but rather improving the system.
“Are we efficient in the services we deliver? Are we getting value for the money that’s spent there?,” Van Load said.
On top of this, New Democrats will be busy choosing a new leader of the Opposition. Eight candidates are battling for the job ahead of the March convention in Toronto.
