The federal government does not need help from the provinces to implement its national dental care program, believes the leader of the New Democratic Party (NDP), Jagmeet Singh.
Posted at 10:51 a.m.
Passing through Montreal, Mr. Singh defended himself on Wednesday from wanting to interfere in the fields of provincial jurisdiction. But whether she agrees or not, the establishment of a national dental program for low-income families – a New Democrat promise – can go forward, he believes.
“We don’t hire dentists. […] We have a system that already pays for some [des Canadiens]Indigenous communities [par exemple]. We are increasing this system and paying the bills so that people have access to dental care immediately,” he explained.
Mr. Singh also reiterated that Quebec could withdraw from the program and obtain financial compensation from the federal government.
The creation of this dental care program, confirmed in the last federal budget, was part of the agreement between Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Jagmeet Singh.
This agreement ensures the survival of the minority Liberal government in the Commons until June 2025 thanks to the support of elected New Democrats during the votes of confidence on the budgets. In exchange for this support, the Liberals are committed to funding certain measures deemed priorities by the NDP.