Common Front for Social Justice

Press Release

To be released Thursday June 29, 2003

Moncton - “ We are satisfied with our action during this election” John Gagnon, spokesperson for the Common Front for Social Justice of New-Brunswick.

“ Our first objective, during this campaign, was that the questions related to poverty be among the issues of this election. At this point, our efforts seem to have been worth it since many issues have been addressed by the leaders. It’s been the case for minimum wage, income assistance and pay equity.” according to Mr. Gagnon.

“ Each political party agrees that raising minimum wage is a short term gain for workers” adds Gagnon.

“ One minor gain has been the fact that the parties recognize that it is necessary to increase the basic income assistance rate. Unfortunately, they have not told how much the increase could be.”  according to Mr. Gagnon.

“ As for a Pay Equity law and a law for the elimination of poverty we are stunned by Lord’s refusal in both cases.”

According to the statistics we have received from the New Brunswick government nearly 44% of the population earns less than $ 25 000 while the poverty rate is between $ 22 606 and $ 24 299. An able-bodied person living alone receives $ 3378 while a couple with two children receives $ 17 642.

“ We have appealed to all the candidates through our document - Election 2003, personnel budget for candidates. We are asking all candidates to prepare a budget for their household as if they were on income assistance. We believe it is important to make politicians aware of poverty by showing them how difficult it is for low-income families to meet their needs. Many candidates have already sent their budget and many are expected before next week. We will reveal the results next week” states Mr. Gagnon

“Individuals and families in poverty expect the promises to become reality” concludes Mr. Gagnon.

For information or interviews contact:
John Gagnon, co-chair (506) 547-6061
Mary Anne LeBlanc, co-chair (506) 633-9881