Issue 67 – 25, 2025
Priority in the Next Federal Budget
Health care should be a priority in the upcoming federal budget, by investing in health care now, we can create a better, healthier future for all.
The COVID-19 pandemic showed us how important health care is. It also revealed many problems in our system. For example, many Canadians couldn’t find a family doctor, and people had to wait a long time in hospital emergency rooms. About 6.5 million Canadians struggled to get the care they needed. This shows us that health care needs more support and funding from the government.
Right now, provinces and territories are mainly responsible for providing health care services like hospitals, doctors, and clinics. The federal government helps by giving money through something called the Canada Health Transfer (CHT). This money is supposed to make sure everyone has access to basic health services.
However, there are problems. Sometimes, provinces don’t use the money exactly for health care or spend it in ways that don’t follow the rules of the Canada Health Act. The Canada Health Act is a law that says health care should be fair, publicly funded, and accessible to everyone. Sometimes, provinces spend money on private clinics that aim to make profit, which can make health care more expensive and less fair for everyone.
Many people still can’t find a family doctor or get quick treatment when they need it. More funding can help fix these problems by hiring more doctors and building clinics.
Health care isn’t just about hospitals and doctors. We also need programs for dental care, mental health support, and affordable prescription drugs. Spending more money can help make these services available to everyone, especially those who can’t afford private insurance.
Health workers are tired and short-staffed. They work long hours and often face burnout. Extra funding can help train new health workers, pay them better, and make their jobs easier.
Investing now in mental health programs and long-term care can prevent health issues from getting worse later. This saves lives and reduces costs for hospitals and clinics in the future.
Every person, whether they are rich or poor, should be able to access important health services. We need to make sure health care is fair and available to everyone, no matter how much money they make.
Let’s make sure the money is used specifically for health care and not wasted on private clinics or other unrelated expenses.
Continue funding programs for dental care, expand coverage for mental health programs, and prescription drugs that everyone can use, not just those who can pay private insurance.
Invest in training and hiring more doctors, nurses, and support staff. Improve working conditions so they stay in their jobs.
Set rules for long-term care homes, enforce the rules, make sure residents get good, safe care and at least four hours of direct care every day.
Health care is essential for everyone’s well-being. When we invest enough money and make sure it’s used properly, we can create a system that works better for all Canadians. This means more people can see a doctor when they need to, get the care they deserve, and stay healthy. By making health care a top priority in the next federal budget, we ensure a healthier, fairer future for everyone.
Read more - afb-2025-health-care.pdf - Google Drive
Seniors' Health in the Next Federal Budget
Addressing seniors’ health in the next federal budget is very important. It will help seniors live better lives, support the workers who care for them, and create a stronger health care system for everyone. By investing now, we can make sure our seniors are safe, healthy, and cared for in the years to come.
As our population gets older, taking care of seniors becomes more important than ever. Seniors are the people who have worked hard all their lives and now deserve good health and support. That is why we need to include seniors' health in the upcoming federal budget.
First, many seniors face health problems as they age. They might have issues like arthritis, heart problems, or diabetes. Without proper healthcare, these problems can become worse and make life harder for them. By investing in seniors’ health, we can help them stay healthy and live comfortably.
Second, good healthcare for seniors can save money in the long run. When seniors get the medical help they need early, they don’t need to visit the hospital as often. Preventive care and regular check-ups can catch health problems before they become serious. This means fewer emergency visits and hospital stays, which saves money for the government and taxpayers.
Third, supporting seniors’ health shows that we care about their well-being. It helps them stay active, independent, and engaged in their communities. When seniors are healthy, they can enjoy their retirement years and continue to contribute to society.
Lastly, including seniors' health in the budget is fair. They have spent their lives working and paying taxes. Now, it’s our turn to make sure they get the care they need as they age.
Focusing on seniors’ health in the upcoming federal budget is very important. It helps improve their quality of life, saves money, and shows respect and care for our elders. By doing this, we are building a stronger, kinder community for everyone.
Read more - afb-2025-seniors-care.pdf - Google Drive
Happy Grandparents Day
Happy Grandparents’ Day to all the wonderful union retiree grandparents out there!
Grandparents Day (September 7) is an annual observance that reflects on the immense contributions of grandparents in the lives of their grandchildren and society. This special day exists to give families the opportunity to express admiration and respect to their grandparents, acknowledge their wisdom and heritage, while fostering intergenerational connections.
In Canada, Grandparents Day is becoming increasingly significant due to the growing number of seniors in the demographic, as well as the notable role that grandparents play in Canadian households and communities. A private member's bill was later introduced by Canadian Member of Parliament Harvie Andre in the House of Commons in 1995, which led to the eventual recognition of this observance.
On this special day, we celebrate everything you do, being role models, sharing stories, and supporting your loved ones through all life’s moments. Thank you for your kindness, patience, and the important role you play in your families and communities. We wish you a very happy and joyful Grandparents’ Day!