Lower contributions to the RQAP: what if we continued to innovate?

The Quebec government has recently decided to reduce all contribution rates to. Therefore, the Quebec Parental Insurance Plan (RQAP). In addition, In an uncertain economic context. Similarly, he says he wants the sums cleared to be injected into the Quebec economy, while giving families and businesses a boost.

It should not be forgotten that this gloomy economic context are added significant budgetary tensions. For example, This translates to reducing state spending which undermine our essential public and community services in health, education and early childhood.

By taking into account these intentions. these contexts, it seems more judicious to simply freeze the contribution rates at their current level.

New expenses

First. to stimulate the economy, it is better to take advantage of a financial health plan and more generously distribute the services to parents of an infant rather than reducing the share lower contributions rqap: what if of social charges paid by companies. It is indeed obvious that the arrival of a child leads to his share of new expenses.

Then, let us recall that the regime, although combining large surplus, is a centerpiece of the family policy of Quebec. It has allowed crucial support for almost 20 years to the families who grow up. but who unfortunately see public services being intended for them gradually.

To this end. scientific literature suggests that better access to parental leave has positive effects on a multitude of indicators of human development, which contributes to reducing socioeconomic and developmental disparities in which toddlers face.

Stability

This type of program can also contribute to improving the emotional stability of children. their general well-being and their academic results, even in adolescence.

Thus. by adopting a freezing of contributions at their current level and by massively investing the surplus accumulated in the bonus lower contributions rqap: what if of the regime, two strokes are really killing.

This would make it possible. for example, to expand access to parents who are currently excluded from it and to improve the amount of services, with more intensity for families in the context of vulnerability, by guaranteeing them in particular a viable rather than minimum income threshold.

It would also be possible to increase the number of weeks of leave reserved for fathers. coparers and to reach the average of the OECD countries (10 weeks), or to ensure that parents living perinatal mourning are much better supported.

Improve the RQAP, while expanding its accessibility, traces the way to more solidarity for toddlers and their families. It inevitably translates into gains for the whole of society, and this, at zero cost for the state.

It is also a way of ensuring that Quebec remains a world leader in family policy and social innovation. lower contributions rqap: what if On this subject, competition is much stronger than in the past.

Let us sleep with an ambitious vision for young families. and dare to continue to invest collectively in this proven social innovation.

Elise Bonneville

Director, Early Childhood Collective