Government of Canada tables legislation taking concrete action to reduce poverty in Canada

Since 2015, the Government has worked hard to lift Canadians out of poverty through record investments totalling $22 billion. This is estimated to have lifted about 650,000 Canadians out of poverty. These investments are laying the foundation for changing the lives of Canadians.

Today, I am proud to announce that the Government of Canada tabled Bill C-87, the proposed Poverty Reduction Act. This bill would enact legislation for Opportunity for All – Canada’s First Poverty Reduction Strategy, which was launched in August. We are here today as a direct result of the extensive engagement with Canadians across the country. These insights have made today’s announcement possible, and I would like to thank all those who participated in this process.

Bill C-87 marks a historic milestone towards the Government of Canada’s commitment to poverty reduction, establishing Canada as a world leader by aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals for 2030. Specifically, the bill proposes measures in the fight against poverty by entrenching into legislation poverty reduction targets, Canada’s Official Poverty Line and a National Advisory Council on Poverty.

Finally, Bill C-87 is part of a broader strategy that would give all Canadians a real and fair chance to succeed. More Canadians joining the middle class means a stronger Canada for everyone.

Sincerely,

The Honourable Jean-Yves Duclos, P.C., M.P.

Minister of Families, Children and Social Development
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