May 4, 2005
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Canadians invited to help share perspectives on Canada's social well-being

OTTAWA—The Honourable Ken Dryden, Minister of Social Development, the Honourable Tony Ianno, Minister of State for Families and Caregivers, and the Honourable Eleni Bakopanos, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Social Development with special emphasis on Social Economy, today invited Canadians to provide information and share perspectives on the country's social landscape.

"We want to hear what Canadians have to say about how we develop our policies and programs," said Minister Dryden. "We want to make sure Canada's social policies and programs meet the needs and expectations of all Canadians and to do that we need to hear the views of as many people as possible."

"All Canadians deserve the highest quality of life. That is why it is important to hear from them about their priorities for social well-being," said Minister Ianno. "This site will help us broaden our reach and further understand the challenges people may face in balancing their professional life, personal health needs, and family and caregiving responsibilities."

Visitors to Social Development Canada's Web site will initially be invited to share their stories and work through a series of questions on the issues of "family/unpaid caregiving". Issues related to the social well-being of children and families, seniors, persons with disabilities, and communities will be added to the site over the next few months.

"We want to encourage as many Canadians as possible to share their stories and perspectives. Their input will enable us to continue our work on building the Canada we want," said Parliamentary Secretary Bakopanos.

Social Development Canada is committed to strengthening Canada's social foundations by supporting the well-being of individuals, families, and communities through citizen-focused policies, programs, and services.

Social Development's consultations Web site can be accessed at www.sdc.gc.ca.

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For information, please contact:

Sarah Bain
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Social Development
(613) 941-0766

Renée Filiatrault
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister of State (Families and Caregivers)
(613) 941-3656

Media Relations
Social Development Canada
(613) 941-1110