Globe and Mail reporter Richard Blackwell interviewed Leilani Farha, CWP’s Executive Director, on the role business can play in ending poverty. Recognizing the impact of poverty on the economy and the poor wages that more than half of low-income people face, this interview hits key points: a living wage, a national poverty strategy, and increasing social assistance rates.
“What would make the most significant difference, is if the federal government simply showed some leadership in the area of poverty, and they haven’t done so. I would like them to first recognize that poverty is a problem in Canada. Even that acknowledgment would be a huge first step.”
Read the interview here.
Another important issue thrust into the spotlight was the unfortunate decision of a Superior Court judge that threw out a charter challenge by four homeless individuals and the Centre for Equality Rights in Accommodation. The group argued that their right to life, liberty and security of the person was violated by decisions made by both the Ontario and federal government regarding housing.
While housing is a human right, and international bodies as well as laws demonstrate that states should incorporate this right into law, the judge felt that this was an issue for policy not the courts. This is surprising considering international law, Canada’s international human rights commitments, and the lack of movement at the policy level regarding housing that clearly impacts the health and quality of life of homeless people. Add to this the fact that Premier Wynne has outwardly supported a national housing strategy (most recently in July when the premiers met at the Council of the Federation in Niagara-on-the-Lake).
The group will appeal the decision.
Full reports available in the Globe and Mail and the Toronto Star.
