Public Interest Alberta Executive Director Bradley Lafortune said the provincial government’s affordability package is flawed. .“Homelessness has more than doubled across the province, and families are sinking further and further into debt,” said Lafortune in a Thursday statement. .“Albertans deserve better than sleepless nights with their stomachs in knots wondering how they will pay their utility bills, feed their families, or make rent or mortgage payments.”.The statement said while the $100 payments every six months offered to seniors, Assured Income for the Severely Handicapped recipients, and children will provide some temporary relief, it will not address the problem at the root. It said Albertans are struggling with skyrocketing costs as grocery stores and utility companies post record-breaking profits. .Lafortune said the Alberta government does not care about income inequality. He added the Alberta government is “continuing to line shareholder pockets with tax breaks and corporate welfare.”.The statement went on to say it is no surprise these measures have been introduced months away from a provincial election. It said the Alberta United Conservative Party is attempting to buy votes through cash payments while slashing public services. .Lafortune concluded by saying Alberta has solutions “to reverse the affordability crisis, fix healthcare and education, and create the conditions for a prosperous future for all Albertans.” But it requires more than bandages and distractions. .“It requires fair taxation and a fundamental reinvestment of public institutions and services,” he said. .The Alberta government said on Friday it will provide the details for when direct payments will arrive on Monday. .READ MORE: Alberta's government to announce affordability payment application and distribution details on Monday."Starting this month, we will be providing seniors, families with children, and other eligible Albertans with $600 in direct payments over six months to help offset inflationary pressures," said Alberta Affordability and Utilities Minister Matt Jones. ."On January 9, we will be announcing important affordability payment application and distribution details, including the launch date.".Alberta Premier Danielle Smith took to the airwaves in November to say substantial help was on the way, as she would be introducing the Inflation Relief Act and suspending the provincial fuel tax. .READ MORE: Smith announces Inflation Relief Act and suspends fuel tax in Alberta."We are facing a very difficult time as a country and as a province,” said Smith. .The Alberta government will provide $600 over six months to every eligible child and senior, targeted at middle class families with household incomes below $180,000. It is going to suspend the fuel tax for the next six months and make the current relief program permanent after.
