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VICTORIA – The year-long persons with disabilities designation review process is complete and the vast majority of cases reviewed are eligible under the new criteria, Human Resources Minister Murray Coell announced today.
Out of the 61,932 persons with disabilities receiving assistance in September 2002, 60,775 were found eligible for persons with disabilities assistance under the government’s new legislation.
There were 400 people who had their disability designation rescinded because they did not meet the medical requirements or chose not to return their forms. In addition, 695 cases were closed because individuals’ financial circumstances had changed – they were employed or their family situation had changed and they were no longer in need of assistance. As well, there were 62 extensions to individuals for extenuating circumstances.
“This is the result that we expected,” said Coell. “For the first time in over 10 years, we have certainty that public resources are going to those most in need. At the same time, we are protecting services for those who depend on them.
“This long-overdue review was about fairness. It ensures persons with disabilities receive the assistance they are eligible for – the third-highest rate among Canadian provinces – and assures taxpayers that their tax dollars are going to those who are truly eligible.”
As a result of the review, there is now about $8 million a year that can be spent on new clients who are eligible for persons with disabilities assistance.
The Minister noted that there are now more British Columbians receiving persons with disabilities assistance than before the review started. In September 2002, 61,932 clients received assistance; in July 2003, 65,516 received assistance - an increase of 5.8 per cent.
Ministry employees have contacted those clients who were not found eligible, or who did not return their forms, to discuss changes in their rate of assistance and eligibility for the persons with persistent multiple barriers category. Clients who wish to appeal the decision have 20 business days from the date of notification to inform the ministry of their intent to appeal and provide new information for their case.
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