Federal, Provincial and Territorial Ministers Responsible for Seniors address issues facing Canadian seniors

EDMONTON, ALBERTA, September 10, 2009-At their annual meeting, the Federal, Provincial and Territorial Ministers Responsible for Seniors highlighted the valuable contributions seniors make in their communities. They acknowledged the importance of seniors' independence and the promotion of positive, healthy and active aging, and age-friendly communities for current and future seniors. They also stressed the importance of better responding to the needs of the most vulnerable seniors.

"It is always a pleasure to meet with my provincial and territorial colleagues. The directions we have agreed upon today respond to the diverse and important needs of Canada's growing seniors population," said the Honourable Marjory LeBreton, Leader of the Government in the Senate, Minister of State (Seniors), and Co-chair of the meeting. "Governments across the country are committed to promoting positive well-being and security of seniors, as well as to ensuring that seniors are valued for their ongoing contributions."

Ministers also recognized the opportunities of an aging population as well as its challenges such as negative perceptions of aging, financial security, and the abuse of older persons. Financial abuse was identified as an area of growing concern for seniors. Ministers acknowledge the importance of providing tools and information to help seniors protect their financial security.

"We understand the importance of raising awareness on the issue of abuse of older persons," said the Honourable Mary Anne Jablonski, Minister of Seniors and Community Supports for Alberta, and Co-chair of the meeting. "We have a shared responsibility as individuals, families, communities and governments to work together wherever possible to address all forms of abuse of older persons."

Ministers also agreed to support the development of a new Web portal to make information and best practices on addressing the abuse of older persons more readily available to seniors, interest groups and the public at large.

Governments have a wide array of programs and services that benefit seniors. Ministers recognized the need to continue exploring new opportunities and innovative ways of ensuring that seniors are able to easily access all the programs and benefits for which they are eligible.

Ministers look forward with interest to the work of the Federal/Provincial/Territorial Research Working Group on Retirement Income Adequacy, which will be presented to Ministers of Finance and Ministers responsible for pensions in December 2009.

In 2010, Federal, Provincial and Territorial Ministers Responsible for Seniors will reconvene in New Brunswick to discuss the results of past work and explore new opportunities to promote the well-being of Canada's seniors.

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This news release is available in alternative formats upon request.

For further information (media only):

Media Relations Office
Human Resources and Skills Development Canada
819-994-5559

Dan Laville
Acting Director
Communications
Alberta Ministry of Seniors and Community Supports
780-415-9950