STATEMENT BY MINISTER OF STATE IANNO ON INTERNATIONAL DAY OF OLDER PERSONS

Ottawa, September 30, 2005 — Saturday, October 1, 2005, is the United Nations' International Day of Older Persons. Tony Ianno, Minister of State for Families and Caregivers today said, "Seniors have helped to make our nation great. We are privileged to have the country we have today because of seniors' hard work and dedication." He noted that, "It is with pride that I honour Canada's seniors on the International Day of Older Persons."

"Seniors are living longer and more active lives and it is our responsibility to ensure that our older population continues to be a contributing part of Canadian society," said Minister Ianno. "There are however, some seniors who are more vulnerable. Our goal is to make certain no one is left behind."

Endeavouring to protect less fortunate seniors, the Government of Canada has been developing a National Action Plan for Seniors. This will help us stay ahead of the massive demographic change that is having an impact on Canadian society. Guaranteed Income Supplement spending has been increased by $2.7 billion; the New Horizons for Seniors Program budget will be increased to $25 million annually; a National Seniors Secretariat has been created; and, to make affordable living more accessible to all seniors, rent supplement programs are now eligible for funding.

Minister Ianno concluded, "I invite all Canadians to join with me in celebrating the International Day of Older Persons."

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For more information, please contact:

Kelly Ouimet
Director of Communications
Office of Tony Ianno, M.P.
Minister of State (Families and Caregivers)
(613) 299-0290
(613) 941-3656

Media Relations
Social Development Canada
(613) 941-1110

Website: www.sdc.gc.ca