PRESS RELEASE
For immediate release
The Liberal Opposition Joins RAPLIQ in Denouncing the CAQ’s Cuts to Programs for People with Disabilities
QUEBEC CITY, February 19, 2025 – The Official Opposition Critic for Social Services and for People with Disabilities or Autism Spectrum Disorder, Elisabeth Prass, strongly condemns the CAQ’s unjustified cuts to crucial assistance programs for people with disabilities.
At a press conference at the National Assembly, where she was joined by representatives of the Regroupement des activistes pour l’inclusion au Québec (RAPLIQ), the Liberal MNA for D’Arcy-McGee called the CAQ’s numerous cuts a historic setback for accessibility and social participation for people with disabilities.
As she recently pointed out during Question Period, Ms. Prass reiterated her concerns over the reduction in hours for the Chèque Emploi-Service (CES) program, which allows people with disabilities and their families to receive services that support their autonomy and dignity.
The suspension of the Home Adaptation Program, which enables individuals with disabilities to modify their living spaces to meet their needs, was also strongly criticized by the Liberal MNA and RAPLIQ representatives. Finally, the government’s cuts to its contribution to Employment Integration Contracts (CIT) and the CAQ’s proposal to introduce fees for home support services are further proof of its abandonment of people with disabilities, according to Ms. Prass.
Quotes
“If this government truly values respect and inclusion, it must stop cutting these essential programs, which were put in place to allow people with disabilities to fully participate in society and feel like equal citizens. The CAQ is abandoning them in an attempt to make up for six years of disastrous financial mismanagement. It’s disgraceful.”
— Elisabeth Prass, MNA for D’Arcy-McGee and Official Opposition Critic for Social Services and for People with Disabilities or Autism Spectrum Disorder
“Inclusion cannot be just an empty slogan. The government and Santé Québec must stop these cuts and take action now to ensure that everyone has the right to full participation in society, autonomy, and dignity.”
— Steven Laperrière, Executive Director of the Regroupement des activistes pour l’inclusion au Québec
– 30 –
Sources:
Alexandra Régis
Press Attaché
Official Opposition Parliamentary Wing
418-571-6749
[email protected]
Catherine Dostie
Press Attaché
Official Opposition Parliamentary Wing
581-999-6434
[email protected]