Mr. Chairman, our committee also found a significant problem with client eligibility and with cost recovery. The program does not seem to have a clear set of eligibility criteria that are understood by program staff and by the members. Committee Members recognized the need for some kind of means test, similar to the one used to determine eligibility for social assistance. They also suggested exploring a closer working relationship with the Department of Social Services to share information and to reduce duplication of efforts. A related problem is cost recoveries. The program seems to have no clear guidelines for assessing the client contribution, and there are significant delays in making collections.
Motion To Accept Recommendation 5, Carried
The committee recommends, and I move, that the government develop eligibility criteria to determine who can receive legal aid and under what conditions. These criteria must be made available to the public.