Thanks, and a cost of living increase clause would be nice too!

Thanks,

and a cost of living increase clause would be nice too!

In the recent Provincial Budget, the Government of Alberta fulfilled one of Premier Alison Redford’s leadership campaign promises that she would increase AISH by $400 to $1588 per month.  Many of us actually expected this promise to be met immediately after Ms. Redford’s win in the fall, through the judicious use of an Order in Council.  Sadly, things did not happen that quickly; nevertheless, although a few months have passed, the delayed increase is certainly welcome.  The additional income will undoubtedly help people on AISH meet more of their expenses of daily living. To be sure, the increase still leaves AISH recipients a few thousand dollars below the poverty line each year; but it is a good start, and I hope that it is reflective of a new approach of our provincial government towards supporting the needs, dreams and aspirations of persons with disabilities. 

However, for this to be the case, we cannot simply accept the increase and stay quiet in our analysis and political action. We need to remain focused in our advocacy work. It is a step forward but I would argue that by itself the increase is still not enough. 

“We need to add a measure of predictability to the timetable of increases to AISH…Is a cost of living clause for AISH in the cards?”

As mentioned, AISH income remains a below-poverty line income.  This must always be kept in mind. Furthermore, we need to add a measure of predictability to the timetable of increases to AISH and not leave it subject to the vagaries of electoral promises, the siren call of campaign sound bites and whims of political happenstance.  It has to be more concrete.

A quick look at the history of increases to AISH payments reveals that it happens in fits and starts.  Incomes stay stagnant for a long-time, and, in reality, decrease in real purchasing value. Then, for whatever reason, the Provincial Government recognizes this deplorable fact, and makes some modifications to both the actual monthly amount and the income exemption rates.  A hundred dollars here, a couple of hundred there! As noted, these increases are welcome. Money isn’t everything but, let’s face it, it does promote a measure of participation, choice and belonging.  Yet, by themselves these periodic increases are not adequate.  Simply put, people on AISH should not see the value of their income eroded and not know when a catch-up increase is coming.

Therefore, it is essential that AISH payments be tied to annual increases in the cost of living.  This used to be the case (for a couple of years at least!) for social assistance, and is a standard used in the calculation of politicians’ income.  So, if there is a precedent for the use of cost of living increases in other areas covered by public funds, why is this principle not applied for people on AISH?

Yes, the recent increase is a step in the right direction.  It does take AISH closer to the poverty line. But let’s not take our eyes off the ball.  Otherwise, I fear, it will be a long time before we see another increase. So, how about it, Premier Redford, is a cost of living clause for AISH in the cards?

Timothy Wild