September 28, 2010

Ottawa, Ontario – The United Nations General Assembly designated October 1 the International Day of Older Persons. This day was celebrated around the world for the first time on October 1, 1991.

The MP for Miramichi, Tilly O’Neill Gordon, wishes to recognize the vital contribution of older persons in her community and across the country.

“Older persons built the society in which we are so fortunate to live today. There should be more opportunities to thank them.”

“The Government of Canada is proud to pay tribute to the significant ways in which seniors are continuing to shape our society with their experience, expertise and knowledge”, said Minister of State Ablonczy. “Older Canadians have given so much to our families, our communities and our workplaces. October 1 is our opportunity to celebrate those contributions and to show our appreciation”.

On June 16, 2010, Minister of State Ablonczy introduced Bill C-40 in the House of Commons “An Act to establish National Seniors Day”. The Bill honours a 2010 Speech from the Throne commitment to support legislation to create National Seniors Day, an annual occasion to honour older Canadians and show our appreciation for their contributions to Canada’s history and its future.  The Bill was passed unanimously in the House of Commons and is currently in the Senate awaiting second reading.

Each year Canada joins the international community on October 1 to celebrate the United Nations’ International Day of Older Persons. October 1 is also the day designated in Bill C-40 to be Canada’s National Seniors Day, which will afford Canadians the opportunity to recognize and show appreciation for those who helped build our country, continue to shape our future and make a difference in our lives.

National Seniors Day would build on the many concrete measures already introduced by the Government of Canada to improve the well-being and quality of life of Canada’s seniors. These efforts include:

• Providing Canadians with almost $70 billion annually through Canada’s public pension and income support system
• Appointing a Minister of State (Seniors) - someone who can bring the concerns of older Canadians to the Cabinet table and stand up on their behalf
• Providing $2.3 billion annually in tax relief to seniors and pensioners through measures such as pension income splitting and increasing the Age Credit
• Providing $400 million over two years through the Affordable Housing Initiative for the construction of housing units for low-income seniors
• Increasing funding to the New Horizons for Seniors Program in Budget 2010 by $5 million, to $40 million annually. The Program helps seniors bring their leadership, energy and skills to benefit communities across Canada and
• Supporting positive and active aging through the collaborative Age-Friendly Communities Initiative, Canada’s Physical Activity Guide to Healthy Active Living for Older Adults, and falls prevention initiatives

For tips and resources to help celebrate seniors, or for more information on the Government’s programs and services for seniors, please visit www.seniors.gc.ca.