The Government of Canada has announced new affordability measures it will be taking to make groceries and essentials more affordable to Canadians amidst economic uncertainty.

One of the measures is a 25 per cent yearly increase of the Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit, formerly the GST Credit, for five years, along with a one-time payment equivalent to a 50 per cent increase this year.

Saskatchewan Minister of Social Services Terry Jenson says the provincial government is in support of the measures and praised the federal government for working to make life more affordable for people in Saskatchewan and Canada as a whole.

“The Government of Saskatchewan welcomes the federal government’s focus on supporting Canadians with increased GST Credit amounts. Every little bit of support helps. Today’s announcement reflects our shared concern about rising costs and puts more money into the pockets of individuals and their families.”

He adds that the measures align with the provincial government’s views on affordability.

“We understand the financial stress on families, we hear the real life struggles that Saskatchewan people are experiencing and deserve relief from. That’s why our government has been working hard to keep Saskatchewan the most affordable province in Canada.”

Jenson said the one-time payment with the Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit will be tax exempt for those who may need it most.

“I’m pleased to share that our government will be exempting the Groceries and Essentials Benefit for both Saskatchewan Income Support and Saskatchewan Assured Income for Disability programs. This is another affordability measure our government is implementing for low income families across Saskatchewan.”

The federal government’s other measures include cutting taxes for 22 million Canadians, supercharging home building, and making groceries and essentials more affordable.