News Release

FREDERICTON (GNB) – A bill was introduced in the legislature today to allow the Department of Social Development to gain access to financial information from the Canada Revenue Agency on behalf of clients applying for certain programs.

The intention is to make it easier for New Brunswickers to apply for social assistance, public housing, long-term care and dental and vision programs.

“By entering into this agreement with the Canada Revenue Agency, the Department of Social Development will be able, with the client’s consent, to obtain information securely and quickly,” said Families and Children Minister Stephen Horsman. “The department will be able to process many more applications and renewals, in the same time frame, thanks to reduced waiting times for information.”

The bill will amend the Family Income Security Act, Family Services Act, Nursing Homes Act and New Brunswick Housing Act to allow the department to enter into the agreement. Only the financial information required to determine eligibility for specific programs will be shared.

The information is currently collected on paper when clients provide copies of their income tax assessment. The new method will use a secure, encrypted server to get the information on the client’s behalf, with their consent. No paper copies of tax assessments will be required.

No information would be obtained without explicit consent. In cases where consent is not provided, there will still be an option to use the paper process.