EMPLOYMENT INSURANCE

October 2008

The Toronto Caucus of CFUW, representing the six clubs in Toronto, sent a letter to each of their MPs concerning Employment Insurance.

Excerpts of that letter:

“I am writing on behalf of the Toronto Caucus of the Canadian Federation of University Women [CFUW] to express our concern regarding the state of Employment Insurance benefits for Toronto residents. The mandate of the Toronto Caucus of CFUW this year is poverty in the City of Toronto. We are examining several initiatives that we may explore to positively enhance the lives of citizens living in poverty. We have had some contact with the Federal Human Resources Department regarding the eligibility for such benefits. However, we strongly believe that the situation in Toronto has changed drastically since the existing formula was established. Employment opportunities in this city have drastically altered in the last few years.

According to a study completed by Monica Townsend, women in Toronto are especially deprived of benefits including access to training programs. As women head the great majority of  single parent families, we would like to urge you and your MP colleagues across the City of Toronto to come together to provide support to Premier McGuinty in his quest for a fairer deal for families in this city and indeed the Province of Ontario.”