Rally in Halifax. Photo by Angela Giles.
Yesterday, there were rallies in at least 19 cities across the country to protest the Harper government’s cuts to refugee health care benefits.
The National Day of Action was organized by Canadian Doctors for Refugee Care.
CTV reports, “(People took to the streets) to challenge changes to the Interim Federal Health Program, which offers temporary health care benefits to refugee claimants. Last year, the government slashed drug, dental and vision coverage offered to claimants who have not been in Canada long enough to qualify for provincial health coverage. Ottawa also announced that those whose refugee claims are rejected will only receive medical care if their condition is deemed a risk to public health or safety. …Opposition parties, physicians and health care workers decried the cuts, saying the government is denying basic and potentially life-saving care to thousands of people seeking protection in Canada every year.”
The article adds, “CDRC and the Canadian Association of Refugee Lawyers are arguing that refugee health care reductions are unconstitutional and have asked the Federal Court for a judicial review. Last week, a group of more than 50 Canadian writers, artists and actors — including Margaret Atwood and Shirley Douglas — signed a declaration opposing cuts to health services for refugees.”
The Council of Canadians helped promote this day of action among its supporters.
