OTTAWA, ONTARIO, AUGUST 11, 2010—The Honourable Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development, the Honourable Leona Aglukkaq, Minister of Health, and the Honourable Diane Ablonczy, Minister of State (Seniors), today announced the appointment of a new member to the National Seniors Council for a term of three years.
“I am pleased to announce the appointment of Ms. Patricia Eve Edge as a new member of the National Seniors Council,” said Minister Finley. “Her leadership skills and extensive experience supporting seniors’ issues will be an excellent addition to the Council.”
Since retiring in 1995 from a career as a pension and benefits supervisor and consultant, Ms. Edge has worked with numerous organizations and served on various committees representing seniors in the town of Ladysmith, British Columbia, and its surrounding area. These include the Ladysmith Resources Centre Association, the Ladysmith RCMP Community Policing Station, the Ladysmith Senior Centre Society and the Ladysmith Health Care Auxiliary. Ms. Edge has also won a number of awards celebrating her significant commitment to the community, including Volunteer of the Year, RCMP Community Policing (1997-1998), the Queen’s Golden Jubilee Medal (2002) and the Ladysmith Citizen of the Year for Volunteerism (2006).
“As the seniors’ cohort grows rapidly, advice and assistance from the National Seniors Council will play an increasingly vital role,” said Minister of State Ablonczy. “Pat Edge brings to that table a wealth of knowledge and experience on a wide range of issues important to older Canadians, and a demonstrated record of excellence and commitment in all she has undertaken.”
The National Seniors Council provides advice to the federal government on matters related to the well-being and quality of life of Canada’s seniors, including new opportunities and issues arising from a rapidly growing and increasingly diverse seniors’ population.
Members appointed to the National Seniors Council bring with them unique perspectives and experiences that help the federal government understand the issues facing seniors today. The National Seniors Council may comprise a maximum of 12 members, including the Chair.
For more information on the Council, please visit http://www.seniorscouncil.gc.ca.
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This news release is available in alternative formats upon request.
For further information (media only):
Michelle Bakos
Press Secretary
Office of Minister Finley
819-994-2482
Media Relations Office
Human Resources and Skills Development Canada
819-994-5559
