Latest news with #AISH
Edmonton Journal
7 days ago
- Politics
- Edmonton Journal
Friday's letters: UCP grows rainy day fund but soaks seniors
It was nice to see we had a $2.8-billion surplus we could put in the rainy day fund. However, l wonder how we came to garnish such a sum. As a senior, l went for my yearly eye exam only to be told the UCP had removed the benefits for seniors and, in fact, for children for exams. This resulted in my exam doubling in price; l had to refuse the exam and l wonder how many other Albertans did the same. The UCP, because of their own ineptness in ordering COVID drugs and wasting millions of dollars, now want to charge us for getting this inoculation. Article content Article content The UCP want to reduce AISH payments to the vulnerable and charge seniors for health-related drugs; the list goes on. This government has abandoned the folk of Alberta who it should be helping but it is putting money into the Heritage Trust Fund. Article content Article content Charlie Williams, Sherwood Park Article content Homes losing their sun from infill Article content Our family has had the great joy of living many years along Rowland Road and are currently very disappointed by the infill of skinny houses in our beautiful neighbourhood. These skinny houses have not affected our home but many houses have lost their sun due to the enormity of these skinny houses. Article content I realize that city council is probably looking at the additional taxes they will receive from these properties but it has certainly changed our beautiful neighborhood. Article content Article content Colleen Hook, Edmonton Article content It's Smith who should apologize Article content In the spirit of demanding apologies, let's hear some from the premier. She should be apologizing for cramming the idea of an Alberta pension down our throats, as well as a provincial police force. I would also like an apology for wasting untold millions on the Alberta Next Panel sideshow. Article content Let's add blowing up the health-care system and making it more chaotic and challenging for everyone (including health-care workers) to navigate. Oh, and she should be really sorry for coddling and encouraging the separatist agenda. Don't worry, I'm not going to hold my breath waiting for her to apologize. Article content Apparently, the biggest threat during wildfire season wasn't the flames — it was Danielle Smith's bruised ego. Jasper dared to write a report saying her government botched the emergency response, and now she's stomping her boots demanding an apology. Not for the fire. For the feedback.
Edmonton Journal
24-07-2025
- Politics
- Edmonton Journal
Thursday's letters: Scrooge-like UCP should be ashamed
Article content Most right-minded thinkers would agree that individuals receiving Assured Income for the Severely Handicapped (AISH) benefits constitute one of the most disadvantaged and vulnerable groups, worthy of assistance beyond the current meagre monthly benefits offered by that program. Except, that is, our UCP government. Article content According to Jason Nixon, minister of Assisted Living and Social Services, these people are already overpaid. So back in March, when the federal government announced a new Canada Disability Benefit (which will add an additional $200 to top up provincial funding), the province quickly announced that any AISH beneficiary claiming that benefit would see their monthly AISH payment clawed back an equivalent amount. Article content Article content Article content In other words, the province was indirectly grabbing these federal monies intended to help those most in need. As if that wasn't bad enough, the ministry is forcing AISH recipients to become its collection agency by mandating that any AISH recipient who fails to apply for this new federal benefit by Sept. 5 will still have their benefits reduced by $200. Article content Article content So in spite of the fact that they can't 'receive' the federal benefit, it will still be deducted from their provincial benefit resulting in a greater cash saving for our province. The only thing missing from this picture is an image of the minister seated behind his miserly desk on Christmas Eve, quill pen in hand, asking: 'Are there no prisons? Are there no workhouses?' Article content Article content Frankly, this minister and this government should be ashamed of themselves. Article content Jon Rossall, Edmonton Article content Don't let losers run in byelections Article content Pierre Poilievre's calling for a law to block long-ballot protests. There should also be a law stopping a politician from being able to run in another constituency after they lose in their own. Article content As reported by Rob Breakenridge, Premier Smith said that 'creating our own Alberta version of supply management, maybe as a pathway to a market system and maybe just because it would stick our finger in the eye of Quebec … might be (something) we want to do a little consultation on.' Article content Coming on top of her demanding an apology from Jasper for stating the truth, one has to wonder how petty can she and her government get? I can well imagine her outraged response if Quebec announced the potential adoption of a new policy simply to stick a finger in the eye of Alberta. How embarrassing.
Edmonton Journal
23-07-2025
- Politics
- Edmonton Journal
Wednesday's letters: No apology needed for Jasper fire report
Article content I have lost my confidence with Premier Danielle Smith's office. Alberta is forcing all individuals on AISH to go through a lengthy process of applying for the disability tax credit. That may or may not be approved. This must be approved before application can be made for the Canada Disability Benefit. Article content This causes undue confusion, stress and difficulty for these individuals who do not have any idea how to go about it. Add the pressure of a deadline put on. Regardless of whichever way it goes, AISH is taking the benefit that would otherwise be for ever-increasing inflation. Harsh and cruel punishment for vulnerable, handicapped Albertans. Article content Pamela Holmerson, Red Deer Article content Tim Cartmell's apology is greatly appreciated and I commend Tim for being humble and transparent to the public he serves. Well done, Tim! Article content Article content I was also taken aback by the response from Mayor Sohi. Mayor Sohi felt Tim's priority should be with his constituents and Edmonton residents as a whole. I understand the mayor's thoughts but I vehemently disagree. Article content As important as this decision was regarding infill property development, Tim's priority should always be his life partner and family over work or the public. Yes, Tim was elected to do a job but Tim also vowed to love his wife and family. These are two vastly different responsibilities. Would Tim be praised by the public for putting their interests first or would he be praised for putting family first? Article content Public service is temporary; marriage and family is lifelong. Tim made the right and proper decision. Mayor Sohi should re-think his priorities in life. Article content Darryl Rachul, Fort Saskatchewan Article content Kudos to the Edmonton Police Service for their plan to increase surveillance on Edmonton's roadways. The number of speeders has increased dramatically to the point that there are more and more fatalities. Article content Article content With the longer days, speeders have turned main routes into speedways, without any regard for others on the roads. Too many drivers out there are just plain stupid when it comes to their actions on our roadways. They are strictly in it for the thrill. Remember when the premier said that the UCP were taking down most of the photo radar equipment, so that people could enjoy the capabilities of their vehicles on the roads? Article content No thanks to Smith and Devin Dreeshen for aiding and abetting the increased danger on our roads and more harm to people who follow the laws. Once again, the general population is left fending for themselves because of the UCP's extremist choices. Article content
Hamilton Spectator
21-07-2025
- Health
- Hamilton Spectator
Healthcare, Highway 28, and local challenges discussed at MLA townhall in Cold Lake
upgrades to the state of rural health care. 'This kind of meeting is my way of being able to connect with people,' Cyr told attendees at the start, setting the tone for a two-hour conversation. Among the key highlights was the announcement of a new Urgent Care Centre coming to Cold Lake, something Cyr called 'a huge win' that will help 'to take pressure off our emergency room' by shifting non-emergency cases elsewhere. He explained that local physicians played a vital role in identifying systemic barriers like childcare and housing, which are impacting rural doctor retention. He also pointed to the upcoming opening of the Stepping Stone Women's Shelter, saying, 'We've got some traumas in the region, and I really want to make sure women have a place to go.' Councillors and residents raised concerns over Highway 28, and Cyr acknowledged the pressure, saying, 'Bonnyville's Main Street is being done . . . We're looking at actual construction by the fall.' He added that passing lanes between Bonnyville and Smoky Lake are also moving forward. The meeting turned toward health care, where several attendees expressed frustration with long wait times, lack of walk-in options, and the centralized control of Alberta Health Services (AHS). Cyr said the province is now working to return more decision-making power to local hospitals, stating, 'When we lost the ability to make decisions here locally, that is a real impact.' Other topics A major point of discussion was Bill 22, a policy affecting Crown grazing leases. Cyr admitted it wasn't handled properly. 'We don't always get it right, and we need to do a better job of consulting.' He said the bill has since been paused after significant pushback from ranchers. Accessibility issues were also top of mind for local residents. A resident asked for better access to dental care for adults with disabilities. Cyr acknowledged the concerns, saying, 'The billings aren't high enough for those AISH recipients . . . which is very problematic.' Former pharmacist and current City councillor Bob Mattice raised concerns about COVID-19 vaccines no longer being available at local pharmacies, which Cyr said he would take back to the legislature. 'Anything that takes pressure off of our front lines is a win for Albertans.' Questions were also asked about the province's decentralization plan, which could move government services out of Edmonton. Cyr tempered expectations, saying, 'I'm not sure we're ever going to get a full ministry here . . . But there are a lot of services that can be offered outside of Edmonton.' Safety, housing and utilities Community safety was a key topic, with one resident expressing frustration. 'I live 10 minutes out of town. Constant break-ins, people driving up our driveway. The RCMP is not working fine,' stated the resident. In response, Cyr shifted blame from the police to the justice system, saying, 'Our RCMP are arresting people. Our courts are letting them go. It's likely six people doing 80 per cent of the crime. If we put those six people behind bars, we solve most of our problems.' Housing affordability for seniors also sparked strong concerns. One resident pointed out the rising rent at Points West Living, saying, 'That letter from AHS saying rent could go to $2,900 contradicts legislation. The consumer Price Index (CPI) this year is only 2.8 per cent. One senior is paying $2,660, she only receives $2,600 a month. How do seniors manage?' Cyr responded, stating, 'Send something to my office, and I'll have our administrator look into it.' He emphasized that local input is essential to improving health care and housing decisions. Utility costs raised concerns about rural fairness. City of Cold Lake councillour Vicky Lefebvre asked, 'We pay way more out here. What can the government do to make this fair?' Cyr acknowledged the issue, saying, 'We're getting twice the utility bills of Edmonton. Transmission fees are pooled, but distribution fees are regional. I want to see distribution fees pooled province-wide.' Concerns about a rising homeless population were also raised by several residents. Cyr noted that Cold Lake and St. Paul are 'hot spots,' regarding homelessness. He highlighted mobile navigation centers and recovery models from Edmonton and Calgary as potential solutions. Cyr also mentioned a new facility coming to the region. 'Métis Crossing (Healing Waters Recovery Community near Métis Crossing) is the closest recovery center coming up. What we need to do is put people through recovery, not ignore them.' The town hall ended with Cyr urging residents to stay engaged, send concerns to his office, and participate in Alberta's evolving future. Error! Sorry, there was an error processing your request. 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Yahoo
21-07-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
AISH recipients panicked over looming provincial deadline: health providers
Health providers say people who receive Assured Income for the Severely Handicapped (AISH) are calling them in a panic over a letter from the province that threatens to cut their benefits if they don't meet a September deadline. The providers tasked with filling out the forms for the Disability Tax Credit (DTC) and Canada Disability Benefits (CDB) say they are overwhelmed by the calls and confusion over the deadline set by the province. A copy of the letter obtained by CBC News states that AISH clients are "required to access all sources of income they may be eligible for, including federal programs." The letter tells clients to update their local AISH office about the status of their DTC and CDB applications prior to Sept. 5, 2025. "Clients who have not communicated the status of their CDB application to their AISH office prior to September 5, 2025, may see an equivalent amount to the CDB benefit, $200, deducted from their monthly AISH benefits, beginning with the October 2025 period of assistance," reads the letter. The province plans to keep AISH payments at the same amount but take back the $200 monthly amount for the federal benefit. The Alberta government has said it has the highest payments in Canada and exceeds the minimum set by the federal government. WATCH | Why AISH recipients won't get extra money from a new federal disability benefit: AISH recipients, who receive $1,901 a month from the province, say they are being forced to pay upfront for the medical evaluations in order to apply for the benefits. Ivy Hays, from Coronation, has received AISH benefits for nearly 20 years due to a number of permanent health issues that resulted from a massive heart attack in her late 30s. Hays said her physician is charging $400 to fill out the medical form for the DTC application. She said she asked to pay the clinic in instalments but the office insisted she had to pay the entire cost upfront. "My heart hit the floor," Hays said. "I have no living family. I have no way to come up with that $400." Her AISH caseworker arranged for a loan that she could pay back over a series of months, but Hays said she has learned the form will still take at least two months for the physician to fill out, taking her past the Sept. 5 deadline. At an unrelated news conference on Thursday, Assisted Living and Social Services Minister Jason Nixon said his government isn't expecting AISH recipients to complete the federal application process by September 5. Nixon said they are required to check in with their caseworker by that date and update them on where they're at with their application. "We will not be cutting off AISH benefits in September if people are still working through their process with the federal government," he said. 'Very sad' Patty Wilson, a nurse practitioner in Calgary, said her clinic is getting deluged with calls from patients with disabilities worried they will miss the September deadline. Others are concerned they received the letter because they did something wrong. "I'm sad, very sad, for my patients, as well, that this is another hurdle that they have to jump through, another added stressor they have to go through," Wilson said in an interview. Wilson estimates each form takes her about two to three hours to fill out. There are so many people in the queue, Wilson said she'd be lucky to get all them done by September 2026 She already has a one-year wait list for people needing medical forms to get AISH. Dr. Ginetta Silvalaggio, a family physician in Edmonton, said the forms have contributed to her working more hours. While she is managing to keep up at the moment, she worries what will happen by the end of August as the deadline creeps closer. Silvalaggio said she can't understand why the province is taking this action when it ended the last fiscal year with an $8.3 billion surplus. "Why target the disabled community in particular in the name of saving a buck?" she asked. "There's a lot of distress because the time frames are so tight." Research A new brief from the Disability Policy Research Program at the University of Calgary's School of Public Policy compiled reaction to the changes from 241 AISH recipients who were allowed to stay anonymous so they could speak freely. If they could keep the Canada Disability Benefit, respondents said they would use that $200 to buy more and healthier groceries, pay for prescriptions not covered by health benefits, and cover rent increases in market housing. Others spoke about the ability to set aside $5 or $10 a month for a small emergency fund or even have the ability to leave their apartment. "I'm housebound because transportation is too expensive," a respondent from Edmonton wrote. "I feel trapped and being able to get out once in a while would be life-changing." Another respondent said the extra money would allow them to live with more independence and dignity "For someone relying on AISH, $200 isn't just money; it represents hope, stability, and a chance to live with real choices." Senior research associate Brittany Finley was involved in the report, which was an initiative of the Disability Policy Research Program and eight organizations across the province, including Inclusion Alberta, Disability Action Hall, Alberta Ability Network and Inclusion Grande Prairie. Finley said the responses showed that people on AISH believe the government is leaving them behind. "You don't feel that you're being valued as a citizen in the province where you were born and where you live," she said. "And I think that just makes people feel like they've lost hope." The brief recommends that the province abandon the CDB clawback and help AISH recipients apply for the Disability Tax Credit.
