UNICEF is commending Canadian governments after it found the child poverty rate declined during the recession five years ago, while it climbed in 41 other industrialized countries.
The child poverty rate decreased from 23 to 21 per cent during the recession that went from 2008 to 2011. That meant there were 180,000 children who rose above the poverty line. The United Nations body attributed the improvement to initiatives by both the federal government and provincial governments which provide support payments to the poorest families.
But for the very poorest children, conditions deteriorated. The UNICEF report says the difference between the median income of poor children and the poverty line, increased two percentage points.
UNICEF recommends Canada appoint a national commissioner for children to provide a voice for them in Parliament. It would also like legislators to create an emergency plan for child poverty during a recession.
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