Sources close to the government’s proposed $5.3 billion dental care program say the Liberals are planning a temporary solution that involves giving money directly to patients in order to keep their promise to the NDP while they work on a more permanent answer.
As part of a supply agreement to prevent an election after 2025, the Liberals promised NDP a new dental program for low-income families in March.
The government has until December 31st to provide coverage for children aged 12 and under with a household income of less that $90,000. Otherwise, the NDP will walk away from the agreement.
Sources with knowledge of the government’s plans but who are not authorized to speak publicly say the government is unlikely to meet its deadline, and is planning a stopgap solution until a permanent incarnation of the program is put in place.
Although details are not available, sources claim that the temporary solution would allow qualifying families to receive money directly to pay for their dental care while the government works on an expanded program.
In a statement, the health minister’s staff did not confirm or deny the temporary plan, but say they are on track to deliver on the dental care commitment as outlined in the agreement with the New Democrats, who did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
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