NDP statement on National Seniors Day

NDP Critic for Seniors, Rachel Blaney (North Island--Powell River), made the following statement to mark National Seniors Day:

"For the first time in census history, there are now more seniors than children living in Canada. The implications for our country are enormous, especially since there is no long term plan for seniors in Canada.

Seniors have worked hard to build our country, but rising costs mean that many cannot make ends meet. Unaffordable housing, costly prescription drugs, and inadequate supports are making life more difficult for seniors.

As Canadians age, they become more vulnerable. Today, more than a quarter million seniors live below the poverty line. In a country as prosperous as Canada, it’s unacceptable.

That’s why the NDP is advocating for a National Seniors Strategy. We need to ensure the programs and services seniors need remain strong and meet the many challenges ahead, efficiently and effectively.

New Democrats believe seniors should be able to live with dignity. That’s why on National Seniors Day, we are calling on the government to take concrete actions to make life better for seniors."