Alberta disability advocates question provinces new ADAP program [Video]

EDITOR‘S NOTE: A prior version of this story inaccurately reflected Minister Nixon’s characterization of AISH. Global News regrets the error.

The Alberta government is launching a new program similar to Assured Income for the Severely Handicapped, or AISH, but will allow those with disabilities who can work to earn more without losing access to benefits.

The new program is called Alberta Disability Assistance Program or ADAP. The province said it when it launches next year, disability income assistance applicants in Alberta will be assessed for both ADAP and AISH, “ensuring eligible applicants are placed in the program best suited to their unique situation.”

Keri McEachern with the Self Advocacy Federation said she had many questions following Tuesday’s news conference.

“We’re trying to really understand what the program is, at this point. We’re thinking that it’s a revamp of the barriers for employment program.”

NDP MLA Marie Renaud explained the barriers …