Understanding ODSP & MAID

On today’s episode, we will be talking about ODSP and Medical Assistance in dying, (MAID). There is currently inadequate funding and support for people living with disabilities in Ontario through the Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP). An overwhelming majority of ODSP recipients live in poverty, with access to affordable housing and affordable healthcare being out of reach for many. This problem is coupled with expansion in 2021 of the eligibility for Canada’s Medical Assistance in Dying (MAiD), that has seen increased rates of application from those struggling under Ontario’s system, and there is concern over the potential future expansion in March of this year. Our first guest, Mike Schreiner, a Member of Provincial Parliament (MPP) and leader of the Ontario Green Party since 2009 speaks about the recent trend and what can be done about improving ODSP. Our second guest, Trevor Manon outlines the work done by the ODSP Action Coalition, of which he is Secretary Co-Chair, and the challenges faced by those who rely on the group and their advocacy.

Guests:

Mike Schreiner is the Leader of the Green Party of Ontario and MPP for Guelph. He is the first Green MPP elected to the Ontario Legislature in 2018. As the Leader of the Ontario Greens since 2009, Mike’s constituents recognize him as a champion for climate action, income equality, and honest, transparent leadership.

Trevor Manson is Secretary Co-Chair of ODSP Action Coalition–a province-wide, volunteer grassroots advocacy group led by people with lived experience of ODSP, with a network of valued allies including legal workers, disability & poverty related NGOs, policy experts, health care professionals and others who advocate for improvements to the income and other supports available to people with disabilities.

Producers:

Maria Cvetkova - Junior Producer

Antoine Fougere-Ramsamooj - Junior Producer

Jordan Egan - Junior Producer