Canadians invited to provide views on matters important to seniors

OTTAWA — Social Development Canada (SDC) today launched an online public consultation on seniors' issues. The consultation, which is on the department’s website, gives Canadians an opportunity to share their stories and provide feedback into Government of Canada’s effort to advance the well-being of seniors.

"We want to hear from as many people as possible about issues that are important to them," said Ken Dryden, Minister of Social Development. "The information we receive will help direct our efforts to ensure that seniors live in dignity and fully participate in their communities."

The Government of Canada must prepare for a growing and increasingly diverse seniors' population while continuing to address the current needs of seniors. Today, one in eight people are over 65 years of age; in less than 20 years, that number will be one in five. As a result, the needs for health care, housing, and other social services will change in the coming years. Social Development Canada is committed to strengthening Canada’s social foundations by supporting the well-being of seniors through citizen-focused policies and programs.

"Whether planning for retirement or already retired," said Tony Ianno, Minister of State for Families and Caregivers, "Canadians have the knowledge, experience, concerns and information that will help shape our current and future seniors' policy and programs. We look forward to hearing from Canadians from all across the country."

SDC launched its first online consultations in May inviting Canadians to share their stories and work through questions on "family/unpaid caregiving". Using a similar format, this site now seeks input into future policy and program work for seniors. Consultations on the social well-being of persons with disabilities, children, families and communities are expected to be added to the site between now and the fall.

"These consultations are designed to get the input of all Canadians. They will add to our broader-based, ongoing policy dialogues with stakeholders and experts from the seniors community," said Eleni Bakopanos, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Social Development with special emphasis on Social Economy.

Social Development's Online Consultations website is 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

George Young
Chief of Staff
Office of the Minister of State (Families and Caregivers)
(613) 941-2357

Media Relations
Social Development Canada
(613) 941-1110