Trudeau promises to boost Canada Child Benefit and make parental leave tax-free
As the Liberal government continues campaigning in Newfoundland on Tuesday morning, leader Justin Trudeau announced that if re-elected, they would put more money in parent’s pockets to help them during the first year of their children’s lives.
Trudeau’s platform for families includes a promise to pay $1,000 more by boosting Canada Child Benefit (CCB) by 15% for kids under one-year, and making paternal and maternal benefits tax-free.
The Liberals would also introduce a 15-week leave for adoptive parents.
“Every parent knows that raising a child is expensive, especially the first year,” said Trudeau. “With all they have on their shoulders get to make ends meet is the last thing new parents should have to worry about. That is why we will be there for the families, so that they can be there for their children. ”
See also:
- Justin Trudeau kicking off official campaign at rally in key Vancouver riding
- Justin Trudeau officially announces start of 2019 federal election campaign
As parents, our kids always come first. But we know that raising a family is expensive, so we’ve been working hard to help make it more affordable for you. Stay tuned today for a new way we’ll help parents make ends meet and care for your kids. pic.twitter.com/TB7EUQK7eA
— Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) September 16, 2019
Trudeau continues to say that these measures for new parents are important, and that the Liberals will work during the first year of their mandate to establish a “guaranteed paid family leave.”
The Liberals describe this as “an ambitious program which will ensure that parents who do not qualify for paid leave through the employment insurance (EI) or who do not get enough, either because they are between jobs, earn little, or have not worked enough hours, receive a guaranteed income during the first year of their child’s life.”
On Monday, Conservative leader Andrew Scheer announced two tax credits for children’s activities. The Children’s Fitness Tax Credit would allow parents to claim up to $1,000 per child for expenses related to fitness or sports. As well as the Children’s Arts and Learning Tax Credit, which gives parents up to $500 per child for arts-related expenses.
The Conservative government also promised to boost the Registered Education Savings Plan (RESP), with the government’s contribution rising from 20% to 30% for every dollar invested up to $2,500 a year.
