Social Services Minister Tina Beaudry-Mellor. Photo by Manfred Joehnck.
Some changes are coming to the Saskatchewan Assured Income for Disability (SAID) supports that will affect seniors.
Beginning September 1, seniors who turn 65 will no longer be eligible for the benefits. Those who are already receiving it and are 65 or older will continue to get it.
Social Services minister Tina Beaudry-Mellor says other federal programs will help make up the difference. She adds the effect will be negligible.
“I think you have to remember this is going to affect about 10 people a year,“ she said. “Anyone who is currently receiving SAID and OAS will continue to do so. We are protecting those individuals. They will be grandfathered.”
Interim leader Nicole Sarauer. Photo by Manfred Joehnck.
The NDP Opposition sees it differently. Interim leader Nicole Sarauer says removing the benefit will have a devastating effect on people who are currently receiving the benefit, but will lose it when they hit 65.
“Cutting the funding that our most vulnerable seniors rely on to keep a roof over their heads and food on the table is the definition of heartless,” she said.
She also criticized the government for not revealing the information until just a few weeks before it is to take effect.