150 words spoken by Tony in the House of Commons

NEWS RELEASE

TONY MARTIN, MP

************************* Martin calls for comprehensive plan to fight poverty in Canada

Unite 'progressive social democrats and compassionate conservatives'

OTTAWA - In a House of Commons statement today, Sault MP Tony Martin urged the government to move past its "empty words in a throne speech" to work with all parties and build a comprehensive plan to fight poverty in Canada.

Martin said the plan could unite "progressive social democrats and compassionate conservatives."

Here is his statement.

"Mr. Speaker, yesterday many of us wore white bands joining Canadians to stand up against poverty.

"This is not a one-day celebration.

"It is year-round work.

"Now our words need action, money and a real plan.

"With leadership from this House and government we'll move past empty words in a throne speech.

"A plan with an adequate budget, targets, time lines and accountability.

"A plan that could unite progressive social democrats and compassionate conservatives.

"It's working in Ireland where they invested in children and education, and built affordable housing.

"Quebec and Newfoundland Labrador have their plans.

"We need a plan for affordable child care, a good minimum wage.

"Parliament's Human Resources Committee has passed my motion to study the prosperity gap and make recommendations.

"That must be a priority.

"Yesterday on the hill a banner declared that 'Poverty is a government policy.'

"It's time that fighting poverty becomes government policy."

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