At the table: Federal Retirees brings priorities to New Brunswick leadership
Retirement income, healthy aging and access to care were at the centre of discussions with New Brunswick’s premier and cabinet ministers.
Representatives from Federal Retirees and the New Brunswick government meet virtually to discuss issues affecting older Canadians.
How do we build a Canada where people can age with dignity, security and choice? That was the focus of a recent meeting between Federal Retirees and New Brunswick Premier Susan Holt, Health Minister John Dornan and Minister Lyne Chantal Boudreau, minister responsible for seniors, women and gender equality.
Representing the association were national director Richard Bale, New Brunswick advocacy program officer Dorma Grant, branch presidents from across the province and Jessica Searson, director of advocacy.
The conversation highlighted the importance of secure retirement income, and the role pensions play not only in the lives of retirees, but in strengthening local economies and . Participants also discussed health-care priorities, including the province’s efforts to improve access to care and strengthen support for aging in place.
“These issues matter to our members because they affect the ability of all Canadians to age with dignity and independence,” said Bale. “The challenges may present themselves locally, but the solutions require leadership and collaboration across the country.”
As one of Canada’s oldest provinces, New Brunswick offers a glimpse into many of the demographic realities the rest of the country is facing. The conversation underscored the importance of planning now for an aging population and for a positive, healthy aging experience grounded in dignity, independence and security.
Federal Retirees appreciates the opportunity to exchange perspectives with Premier Holt and cabinet ministers and to continue the conversation as we work toward better outcomes for older New Brunswickers and Canadians across the country.
