Senior Citizens' Week Proclaimed

Premier Russell MacLellan today proclaimed June 13 to June 19 as Senior Citizens' Week in Nova Scotia. Wednesday, June 16, has also been declared Senior Citizens' Day in Nova Scotia.

"This year Senior Citizen's Week takes on added significance as we celebrate the International Year of Older Persons," Premier MacLellan said. "Throughout 1999, people and organizations are taking part in activities that celebrate seniors and their contributions to life here in Nova Scotia."

There will be a Nova Scotia connection during many events held across Canada this year. The national theme song for International Year of Older Persons, titled Let's Live Every Minute, was written by Rick Gautreau, George Antoniak and Wayne Hunt of Halifax.

The annual Seniors' Expo next month will also focus on the International Year Of Older Persons with special entertainment, seminars and activities. The Seniors' Expo is one of the services offered by the Nova Scotia Senior Citizens' Secretariat.

"The secretariat has, for 20 years, provided a means of direct communication between seniors, seniors organizations, and government," said Francene Cosman, chair of the Senior Citizens' Secretariat. "And it is playing an important role in promoting events during this special year."

The secretariat provides a single entry point to government that can respond to seniors, their issues and concerns. The secretariat includes the ministers of Community Services, Health, Housing and Municipal Affairs, Education and Culture, and Sport Recreation.