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BC FORUM News Release BC budget casts retired workers adrift VANCOUVER, September 2, 2009 – In the homes of many seniors, there will be loneliness and despair as a result of yesterday’s provincial budget, the B.C. Federation of Retired Union Members (BC FORUM) said today. “I am dismayed by what the government is doing,” said Alice West, (acting) President of BC FORUM. “Senior support services don’t cost much to operate. The government grants were small. But they mobilized hundreds of volunteers to help isolated seniors, support the frail elderly, and support family caregivers,” she said. “In community after community, the government’s budget means those services will cease to exist at the end of this month. The seniors who depend on them will still be here, many of them isolated and alone with no one to turn to. “It’s deeply disappointing that Premier Campbell would treat us this way. Retired workers have contributed to building our province. They should be respected. It’s morally wrong to just cast them adrift. “It doesn’t make sense financially either,” said West. “Seniors support services promote social interaction and activity, which are key indicators of health. These low-cost services help us stay out of expensive hospitals.” West also expressed concern about the increase in Medical Services Plan premiums, and the government’s plan to increase sales taxes by harmonizing the PST and GST. “We’re all going to be paying more for less,” said West. “In addition to cutting seniors support services, some health authorities have already announced cuts in surgeries. B.C. is one of only two provinces that charge a medical premium. Mr. Campbell has already increased it by 50 percent, and in this budget he imposes even more increases, year after year. “Many retired workers live on fixed incomes. We’re careful about how we spend our money. By taxing virtually everything, the HST will mean higher costs for seniors who can least afford it,” she said. | ||
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