GATINEAU, Oct. 2, 2018 /CNW/ - Seniors are an important part of the rich diversity of Canada and have contributed immensely to our communities. The Government of Canada is committed to seeking expert advice on seniors' issues so that older Canadians can age with dignity and economic security.
Today, the Honourable Filomena Tassi, Minister of Seniors and the Honourable Ginette Petitpas Taylor, Minister of Health, are pleased to announce the appointment of Ms. Joan Marie Aylward to the National Seniors Council (NSC). Ms. Aylward joins the NSC as the former Newfoundland and Labrador representative at the Federal/ Provincial/ Territorial Ministerial Councils on Social Policy Reform and has significant experience working closely with seniors transitioning into new, diverse, and challenging living arrangements as they age. Ms. Aylward is currently the Vice Chair of the Newfoundland and Labrador Labour Relations Board and is the former Executive Director of St. Patrick's Mercy Home, a 210 bed nursing home.
Following an open, transparent and merit-based selection process and appointed by the Governor in Council, Ms. Aylward and all NSC members will advise the Government of Canada on matters related to the health, well-being and quality of life of seniors.They will also play a key role in consulting with Canadians – including seniors, experts and organizations who represent and serve seniors to develop and provide advice to the Government on seniors-related policy priorities.
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"The National Seniors Council brings expertise to current and emerging issues related to the health, well-being and quality of life of seniors. The advice they provide to the Government continues to be valuable in understanding seniors issues in Canada."
– The Honourable Filomena Tassi, P.C., Minister of Seniors
"I am pleased to welcome Ms. Aylward to the National Seniors Council. Her expertise and experience is a valued addition to the Council, as we work to better understand and address the needs of our seniors, in a rapidly growing and increasingly diverse aging population."
– The Honourable Ginette C. Petitpas Taylor, P.C., Minister of Health
Quick Facts
- Seniors are the fastest growing demographic group in Canada. By 2030, the number of seniors will reach over 9 million people, representing close to one quarter of Canada's population.
- Since 2007, the NSC has examined issues related to the social isolation of seniors, the participation of older workers in the labour force, positive and active aging, volunteerism, low income among seniors, and elder abuse.
Associated Links
National Seniors Council Members
Governor in Council appointments
SOURCE Employment and Social Development Canada
Annabelle Archambault, Press Secretary, Office of the Minister of Seniors, 819-654-5353, [email protected]; Media Relations Office, Employment and Social Development Canada, 819-994-5559, [email protected]
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