Stephen Harper's 2009 budget is totally inadequate when it comes to funding for Status of Women and for issues that directly affect women. There was not a single mention of women in the entire document.

In tough economic times it is crucial that the government invests in protecting the most vulnerable in society.. No affordable housing programs were introduced that would target vulnerable women. Housing is key to fighting poverty and the first step needed for many looking to get into the workforce. The Budget contained no mention of childcare spaces. An investment in child care would have been an investment in the economy. A national child care program would significantly increase women's ability to contribute to the labour market. The increase in the child tax credit does not go far enough. This budget continues the attack on women's ability to pursue pay equity complaints.
Job creation programs are aimed at infrastructure and construction programs-- both male dominated industries.
The expert panel established to consult Canadians on extending EI to self-employed workers is a positive move, but it will not help those who are affected in the short term. With two thirds of women not qulaifying for EI, changes to the system aer crucial. Many part-time and seasonal workers are still without any support despite paying into the fund.
The tax cuts are no benefit to 40 per cent of women who fall below the lowest income bracket. The cuts have little effect on the 38 per cent of women who fall in the lowest tax bracket. This leaves the most vulnerable 68 per cent of women receiving little or no benefit from the tax cuts.