VAUGHAN, ONTARIO, February 25, 2011 - The Honourable Julian Fantino, Minister of State (Seniors), today emphasized the importance of collaboration in supporting Canada's seniors, in an address to participants at a local breakfast roundtable, hosted by UniversalCare Canada Inc.
"Our government is working with other levels of government and with stakeholders across Canada to help seniors remain active and engaged in their families, workplaces and communities," said Minister Fantino.
The Minister highlighted several federal programs and initiatives that help older Canadians maintain a good quality of life, support positive and active aging and enhance their financial security. He also took questions from roundtable participants who represented various long-term care facilities and retirement homes in the Vaughan/York region.
"We are elated to have Minister Fantino join us today," said Joseph Gulizia, President and CEO of UniversalCare Canada Inc. and moderator for the event. "This is a perfect opportunity for the Minister to speak to us about what the Government of Canada is doing to promote positive and active aging, and supporting the well-being of seniors."
For more information on the Government of Canada's programs and services for seniors, please visit www.seniors.gc.ca.
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This news release is available in alternative formats on request.
For further information (media only):
Heather Domereckyj
Director of Communications
Office of Minister of State Fantino
819-953-1221
Media Relations Office
Human Resources and Skills Development Canada
819-994-5559
The Government of Canada is working hard to help improve the lives of seniors on many fronts. These efforts include:
- providing Canadians with almost $70 billion this year through Canada's public pension system;
- providing $2.3 billion annually in tax relief to seniors and pensioners through measures such as pension income splitting and increasing the Age Credit;
- providing $400 million over two years through the Affordable Housing Initiative for the construction of housing units for low-income seniors;
- increasing funding to the New Horizons for Seniors Program in Budget 2010 by $5 million, bringing the Program's total funding to $40 million annually. The Program helps seniors use their leadership, energy and skills to benefit communities across Canada;
- supporting positive and active aging through the collaborative Age Friendly Communities Initiative, Canada's Physical Activity Guide to Healthy Active Living for Older Adults, and falls prevention initiatives;
- appointing a Minister of State (Seniors)-someone who can bring the concerns of older Canadians to the Cabinet table and stand up on their behalf;
- establishing National Seniors Day to recognize the significant and ongoing contributions seniors make to families, communities, workplaces and society; and
- creating the National Seniors Council in 2007 to provide advice to the federal government on matters related to the well-being and quality of life of seniors.
