Statement by NDP leader Tom Mulcair on International Day for the Eradication of Poverty

NDP Leader Tom Mulcair made the following statement on eradicating poverty in Canada:

“Today, on International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, Canadians in all regions and communities are concerned about their economic future. The NDP has a clear plan to fight poverty, help the more vulnerable, and support middle-class families and seniors that are struggling to make ends meet.

Reducing poverty starts with preserving good jobs and creating new opportunities. With 1.3 million unemployed Canadians, including nearly 300,000 more than before the 2008 recession, and the loss of 400,000 manufacturing jobs under his watch, Stephen Harper’s economic plan isn’t working.

An NDP government will bring in a $15/hour federal minimum wage, work to reduce the cost of prescription drugs, begin to lift thousands of seniors and children out of poverty, and create 40,000 new paid internships and other opportunities for young Canadians. After almost ten years of Conservative neglect, the NDP will grow the middle class and build a better future for all Canadians.

Across the country, Canadians are ready for change and the NDP is ready to make parliament work for them.