“You say seniors will have trouble applying. I say our program is big and will help many seniors. We are even giving more money. I hope service Canada can answer questions so seniors can still apply.”
What they said. What they meant.
Plain-language translations from the House of Commons.
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Oral Questions
Seniors
A debate about changes the government made to a grant program for seniors' community projects. The changes require senior volunteer groups to register for a CRA business number and use a complex online portal to apply. The Conservatives criticized the changes as burdensome for elderly volunteers struggling with technology. The Liberals defended the changes as necessary to strengthen the program's integrity and accessibility, and claimed they worked with organizations on the changes.
“I deny that our program is complicated. We worked with some organizations and made changes. We will keep spending money in every riding. I will not hear criticism from you, because you didn't support our expensive plans.”
“I want to look like I'm helping seniors. We'll force volunteer groups to jump through hoops to comply with new rules. Also we'll graciously offer them guidance on how to deal with the red tape we just created. The changes are important to maintain the appearance of integrity. Don't worry, we've set a hard deadline for everyone to comply.”