The Ontario government says it has ended social assistance for people who are living in Canada illegally, as well as for those in the country on a temporary basis.

The province announced the change Thursday and said it takes effect immediately.

“Our government will always be there for those that need it most, but taxpayer-funded social assistance should not go to people living in Canada illegally,” said Social Services Minister Michael Parsa.

“These changes will protect taxpayer dollars and ensure these programs are there for the people who they were intended to support.”

Premier Doug Ford first vowed to make the change following media reports about a tribunal ruling that awarded Ontario Works payments to a man who came to Canada decades ago on a temporary work permit that has since expired.

Ford wrote in a social media post last month his government would always support people who have fallen on hard times, but “that doesn’t include people living in Canada illegally.”

The province said it has amended regulations “to provide clarity on who is eligible for social assistance.”

Officials said the following people are no longer eligible:

Individuals who are in Canada illegally; and
Individuals authorized to remain in Canada on a temporary basis, for example, those here with student visas, work permits or as visitors and tourists.

“These changes take effect immediately to stop people who are not authorized to remain in Canada from receiving these financial supports, ensuring Ontario’s government-funded social assistance programs are reserved for people who meet the province’s eligibility requirements,” the government said.

Social assistance is available under the Ontario Works program and the Ontario Disability Support Program.

Those on ODSP can get up to $1,000 per month through employment, without affecting their eligibility for benefits and support.

Ontario Works recipients receive help from caseworkers who help them prepare to participate in employment, find employment, and “achieve financial independence,” the province said.

Applicants need to demonstrate their citizenship or immigration status.

The government said people may report cases of suspected fraud by contacting the fraud hotline.

— With files from The Canadian Press


INsauga’s Editorial Standards and Policies

Last 30 Days: 38,592 Votes

All Time: 1,468,029 Votes

1269 VOTES
Should Canada make more concessions to try to get a trade deal with the U.S.?

WIN A $100 GIFT CARD

Subscribe to INsauga’s daily email newsletter for a chance to win a $100 Amazon gift card.