Families, Children and Social Development Minister Jean-Yves Duclos announced the consultation that runs until June at a news conference Feb. 13. Duclos also called for nominations for a ministerial advisory committee on poverty.

“I’m looking very much forward to receiving feedback from all these Canadians, especially from those who have knowledge, whether direct or indirect, of poverty,” Duclos said. “Their point of view will be invaluable.”

A news release from Duclos’ ministry said that among the strategies being employed is the Poverty Reduction Strategy engagement website, including discussion forums and online town halls. “The online engagement will be complemented by roundtables with provincial, territorial and municipal governments; Indigenous organizations; businesses; community organizations; academic experts and Canadians who have experienced poverty,” said the release.

Darlene O’Leary, CPJ’s socio-economic policy analyst, said she hopes “the process allows for strong engagement by the public.”

“We have been calling on the Minister to ensure that the consultations engage widely with a range of stakeholders, most importantly people with a lived experience of poverty,” she said in a statement.

“It’s important, as well, that the process plans to engage with Indigenous organizations,.”

CPJ has co-led the Dignity for All anti-poverty campaign with Canada Without Poverty since 2009. The campaign has drawn the support of 600 local and national organizations and more than 10,000 individuals.

Dignity for All’s National Anti-Poverty Plan for Canada recommends the government address income security, housing, health, food security, employment and early childhood education and care.