Bill C-31, the federal legislation that stops the payment of old age security benefits to convicted criminals, has become law.
Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development, recently announced the passage of Bill C-31, to the delight of one local MP.
“It is wrong that convicted killers like Clifford Olson were receiving taxpayers’ entitlements such as old age security benefits,” said Gary Schellenberger, MP for Perth Wellington.
“Our government made a commitment to Canadians to end these entitlements for prisoners, and we have delivered on our commitment.”
Sharon Rosenfeldt, president of Victims of Violence, said, “It’s great to see that this government is putting victims and taxpayers first, ahead of criminals. The suspension of old age security benefit payments to inmates does just that.
“I commend Prime Minister Harper and Minister Finley for taking leadership on this important issue and ending entitlements for convicted criminals. It is common sense that prisoners who are already receiving taxpayer-funded room and board should not also receive old age security. That is why Canadians are upset and outraged.” In addition to suspending benefits for federal inmates who have sentences of two years or more, the government will begin negotiations with the provinces and territories to implement these changes for provincial and territorial inmates who have sentences exceeding 90 days.
Old age security benefit payments will be suspended the month following an inmate’s incarceration. Benefits will start or resume the month the individual is released.
