Madam Speaker, thank you. In reply to the Member, travel assistance is available from two programs: medical travel; and, social assistance. Madam Speaker, to be eligible for medical travel assistance, a doctor has to certify that travel by the relative is medically necessary for the patient's treatment. Without the doctor's certificate, travel cannot be authorized.
Secondly, to be eligible for compassionate travel under social assistance, the relative who wishes to travel has to be eligible for social assistance. This eligibility is based on a needs test. If the relative has sufficient income to meet their needs, then they are not eligible for this form of assistance.
Madam Speaker, the government recognizes that the current policies have restrictions that can create hardships for some families. However, these are the two access policies that can be used in requesting travel assistance. Thank you.