Hon. Julie Miville-Dechêne: Senator Moreau, criticism from stakeholders has been mounting ever since the government decided to require a co-payment from asylum seekers as of May 1. They must now pay $4 for each prescription every time they renew, as well as 30% of the cost of emergency dental care and mental health services.

I met with Quebec pediatrician Tinh-Nhan Luong, who agrees with the Canadian Paediatric Society that these cuts will have a major impact on groups of people who are already in a very precarious financial position. These cuts will affect people grappling with a range of traumas and illnesses, such as sickle cell disease and diabetes, as well as pregnant women who may have to interrupt their treatment because they lack funds.

Choosing to let fewer asylum seekers in is one thing, but is this how we should treat them when they get here, often in a very bad state?

Hon. Pierre Moreau (Government Representative in the Senate): Senator Miville-Dechêne, Canada remains a very welcoming country for refugees. As I’m sure you know, the cost of health care is directly related to the volume of claims and claimants. The government’s goal is therefore to ensure the sustainability of programs, while treating all taxpayers fairly. Essential care continues to be fully covered with no co-payment, which protects the health of Canadians and asylum seekers.

As you mentioned, when making changes to coverage for supplemental health products and services, the government deliberately kept costs low at $4 for a prescription and 30% of the cost for other services. All other fees are covered. This program will make it possible to bring public health coverage in line with benefits for social assistance recipients, who are Canadian residents.

Senator Miville-Dechêne: We could spend a long time debating whether mental health care is essential, but aren’t these co-payments just a short-sighted move on the part of the government? Asylum seekers, who have little or no financial means, are likely to become even sicker and end up in the emergency room. That will cost more in medical care, and the provinces will have to foot the bill. What are your thoughts on that?

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Senator Moreau: What I think is not important. What matters is what the government thinks. I will pass the government’s message on to you. Obviously, we could debate what constitutes essential health care. However, essential care continues to be fully covered. Doctors’ appointments and hospital stays are also fully covered.

I want to note in passing what the Prime Minister said. He said that what sets Canada apart from the United States is that, here, people have the right to receive proper health care.