25 November 2008
Miller Demands Review of TCA Programme
Proposes independent expert to clarify questions surrounding rule changes

QUEEN'S PARK—NDP MPP Paul Miller is demanding the McGuinty government appoint an independent expert to review the controversial Temporary Care Assistance (TCA) programme.

Over the past several weeks, Miller has highlighted the plight of thousands of Ontario grandparents who rely on the TCA to provide much-needed financial support to help them raise their at-risk grandkids.

Many grandparents across Ontario have either been cut off, or are about to be cut off, from the programme as a result of recent eligibility changes made by the McGuinty government. The McGuinty government denies its changes have affected grandparents raising grandkids.

“We need to get to the bottom of this matter and that’s why I’m proposing the appointment of an independent expert to audit the programme and report back to this Legislature on the true state of the TCA programme. We need to make sure that this programme is doing what it is supposed to do. If it’s not, we have to come up with a programme that provides these loving and courageous grandparents with the financial support necessary to be able look after the basic needs of their grandchildren. It’s the right thing to do both morally and financially,” said Miller.

The TCA programme is supposed to provide income assistance and benefits to adult caregivers on behalf of a child. However, in July, the Ministry of Community and Social Services amended the eligibility definition of the programme, making it nearly impossible for grandparents raising their grandchildren to access this programme.

“This programme needs to be reviewed by an independent expert, who can report back with findings and recommendations. If nothing has changed, the McGuinty government shouldn’t be afraid of such a review,” said Miller.

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Media Contact: Paul Miller (416) 325-0707

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