“The dental care plan is helping millions of people get care and save money. Some people were approved for the plan by mistake through no fault of their own. We are working with them to find a fair solution.”

“Mr. Speaker, I thank the member, my good friend from Courtenay—Alberni, for his very important question. As the member mentioned, the Canadian dental care plan is the most transformative social program in a generation. More than seven million Canadians are now eligible for the CDCP, and more than four million Canadians have received dental services from the plan. During the most recent renewal period, more than 80% of CDCP members successfully renewed their coverage. In the member’s riding of Courtenay—Alberni, more than 29,000 people are eligible for the CDCP. That means seniors are receiving care that has been delayed for years. Children and young people are getting access to preventative care earlier. Families are saving, on average, about $900 per year through the program. At a time when many Canadians are feeling pressure from the rising cost of living, the CDCP is helping people access essential dental care with greater peace of mind. As with any program of this scale, it is important that eligibility requirements are administered carefully and consistently. Health Canada regularly conducts eligibility reviews to confirm that applicant information aligns with records held by the Canada Revenue Agency. In cases where additional clarification is needed, individuals may be asked to provide supporting documentation, which the department then reviews before confirming eligibility. The member has rightfully raised cases where, through no fault of their own, some individuals were incorrectly approved for dental services. I can assure the member that the department is working closely with impacted individuals and the members of Parliament who have raised this issue to find an equitable solution. I know this issue is important to the member, and I want to emphasize that the minister and all of us are committed to ensuring the program works effectively for Canadians. That means making sure eligible Canadians can continue accessing the dental care they need while supporting a system that remains reliable and sustainable for the millions of Canadians who depend on it.”

“Our dental care plan is working. Over four million Canadians have already received care through it, and we will keep making sure it helps people.”

“Mr. Speaker, I thank my hon. colleague and good friend from Courtenay— Alberni for raising this important issue. Our government remains committed to ensuring that the Canadian dental care plan continues to deliver for Canadians. More than four million Canadians have already received care through the CDCP, and more than seven million Canadians are currently eligible for the program. We will continue working to ensure that the program remains accessible, effective and responsive to the needs of Canadians.”

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