Budget 2021: A More Equal Canada

A More Equal Canada

The following is an excerpt from Canada’s 2021 Federal Budget. You can find more information at budget.gc.ca. 

COVID-19 highlighted and exacerbated the inequities within our society.

Systemic racism and discrimination are a painful reality for too many people, especially for marginalized groups, including Indigenous, Black, and racialized people, those living with disabilities, and members of the 2SLGBTQ+ communities.

Those who live with disabilities still face many barriers to health care, jobs, and services. And many Canadians require additional support for challenging health issues beyond COVID-19—from substance use to fair access to sexual and reproductive health, to navigating the complexities of end-of-life care.

When we recover from the COVID-19 pandemic, we must continue bridging the gaps that hold Canada back from reaching its potential. We are at our best when we come together to help one another, as we saw Canadians do countless times during the pandemic.

Budget 2021 outlines the government’s plan to build a healthier, more inclusive, and more equal Canada.

Better Palliative Care

To provide Canadians, including those who live in long-term care and their families, with better palliative and end-of-life care, including culturally sensitive care:

• Budget 2021 proposes to provide $29.8 million over six years, starting in 2021-22, to Health Canada to advance the government’s palliative care strategy and lay a better foundation for coordinated action on long-term and supportive care needs, improving access to quality palliative care. Initiatives could include: raising awareness of the importance of palliative care; providing public education on grief; improving palliative care skills and supports for health care providers, families, caregivers, and communities; enhancing data collection and research; and improving access to culturally sensitive palliative and end-of-life care.