“The government made it harder for seniors' community projects to qualify for funding. Now they have to register as a business within a month or get rejected. The Secretary of Seniors told volunteers to 'figure it out themselves.' That's not enough time! The government shouldn't treat these community groups so badly.”
What they said. What they meant.
Plain-language translations from the House of Commons.
Recent debates
8 latest topics
Spring Economic Update 2026 Implementation Act
57 statements
Spring Economic Update 2026 Implementation Act
19 statements
Arab Heritage Month Act
5 statements
The Economy
15 statements
Government Priorities
2 statements
Government Priorities
2 statements
Housing
12 statements
The Environment
2 statements
Oral Questions
Seniors
A debate where the Liberals insisted their New Horizons program changes were good for seniors organizations, while the Conservatives criticized the red tape involved. The NDP accused the government of lacking empathy for seniors and the Bloc demanded the reform be postponed. The debate then devolved into partisan bickering over which party really supports seniors.
“We announced the changes a month before applications opened. The new rules are to protect the program. CanAge likes the changes. They say it makes the program accessible and inclusive.”
“I want the minister to delay her reform. She should give more time for small groups to do the new paperwork. It's not fair to disqualify them if they can't register in time. Our volunteers need empathy.”
“These changes are important for the program's integrity. Service Canada has resources to help organizations sign up. It takes 15 to 30 minutes online. They can also get help over the phone or from their MP's office. I'm filling time with kind words about our wonderful organizations and our support.”
“This government is bad. It has no empathy for seniors or community groups. Its quick changes to one program put some projects at risk. The government should thank the volunteers who run projects instead of treating them like maybe-fraudsters. I want the government to delay this change so seniors don't get left behind.”
“I want to talk about the good work our government is doing. Seniors organizations like the changes we made. We are giving more money to these organizations and making sure the program lasts a long time. Don't worry, the program will be there for seniors when they need it.”
“Seniors are sleeping in Tim Hortons because they can't afford a place to live. The Prime Minister spends a lot of money on luxury catering. Canada is the only G20 country in recession. Canadians can't afford food, rent or housing. The Prime Minister's policies are failing Canadians. Why doesn't he admit it?”
“Seniors are struggling. I call that heartbreaking. That other party wouldn't help them either. We have a safety net, benefits and a food security strategy. We're building lots of new homes.”
“Liberal policies are causing a crisis. Seniors can't afford housing. They're homeless and shelters are full. Seniors shouldn't live like this after working so hard. The Prime Minister should reverse his expensive policies so Canadians can afford to live.”
“I want you to feel ashamed for opposing our increases to Old Age Security and other programs. You say you support seniors but your voting record shows the opposite. Your party has fought us every step of the way.”