Government rolls out universal child care benefit ahead of election

Canada’s employment minister was in Halifax today touting what has been billed as the largest, one-time benefit payment in federal history.

Canadian families with children under 18 can expect a hefty cheque to arrive in their mailboxes or bank accounts – all thanks to the government’s Universal Child Care Benefit (UCCB). Then, click the play button.

Under the new payment schedule, families with children aged five and under will now receive monthly cheques of $160 per child, an increase of $60 per month.

“Now that our government has balanced the budget, we’re helping your family balance yours”, she said.

Although critics have said the money would be better spent on a national child care program, Poilievre said the “tangible benefits” are of most use to parents.

Parents are tweeting back, saying they appreciate the cash and the choice it gives them to raise their kids as they see fit.

The benefit is available to all Canadian families with children, no matter what their income is.

Because of the timing, the opposition parties accuse the Harper government of trying to buy votes ahead of the fall election.