Seniors' Week Proclaimed

Premier John Hamm and the chair of the Nova Scotia Senior Citizens' Secretariat, Jamie Muir, have proclaimed June 18 to June 24 as Seniors' Week in Nova Scotia.

"The week is an excellent opportunity for all Nova Scotians to show their appreciation to seniors for the active and meaningful contributions they make to our province year-round," said Premier Hamm. "It is also an opportunity to create awareness about the activities, programs and services that are available for seniors."

This year, changes were made in how seniors' programs are delivered to make them more accessible. In April, seniors' programs were transferred from the Department of Community Services to the Department of Health.

"This change will allow the province to better meet the needs of seniors in Nova Scotia. Moving seniors' programs under one ministry will help to ensure programs and services are delivered more effectively and efficiently," said secretariat chair and Health Minister Jamie Muir.

The secretariat is a government agency that provides direct communication between seniors, seniors' organizations and government. During the past several months the Senior Citizens' Secretariat has formed several new committees to address seniors' concerns and interests including: safe driving, elder abuse, literacy and grandparents' rights. The committees support government's commitment to ensure the input and interests of seniors are at the forefront of government decision-making.

In addition to their committee work, the secretariat is organizing its annual 50+ Expo which is scheduled to take place on July 14 and 15. To learn about these programs or the secretariat please call the Nova Scotia Senior Citizens' Secretariat at 1-800-670-0065.

The secretariat includes the ministers of Community Services, Health, Housing and Municipal Affairs, Education and the minister responsible for Sport and Recreation.