NDP MPP Cheri DiNovo says the McGuinty Liberals new poverty legislation won’t actually do anything to help Ontarians living in poverty.

“With more Ontarians falling into poverty each and every day, there is nothing in the McGuinty government’s legislation to lessen the burden they face. No plan, no strategy – it’s a bill that’s much ado about nothing,” said DiNovo.

“Ontarians can only conclude one thing – that the McGuinty Liberals would rather pay lip service to the poor than actually help them.”

This afternoon, the McGuinty government will introduce legislation requiring future governments to have poverty plans. However, the legislation contains no enforcement mechanism, no money, and no specific actions..

DiNovo noted that report after report has shown that Ontarians are being forced to turn to food banks in record numbers and child poverty rates in parts of the province have doubled in recent years.

“New Democrats believe now – during this growing economic crisis – is the time for urgent and strong action to alleviate poverty,” said DiNovo.

“But what we get from this government is legislation that requires no minimum targets, no specific actions and no penalties against governments that choose to ignore poverty.. People living in poverty want a real increase to the minimum wage, access to affordable housing and childcare, and adequate income supports – not political grandstanding.”