Enclosed is a statement from the Honourable Paul Pike, Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development, in response to a report issued today by the Office of the Seniors’ Advocate:

“Older adults and seniors have helped shape Newfoundland and Labrador’s communities. As a government, we value their role in building our economy and raising families, and we appreciate the pressures that they are facing due to increases in the cost of living, which are impacting people globally.

Our government, through the Cabinet Committee on Seniors, is steadfast in its commitment to fostering inclusive, age-friendly communities. We are firmly focused on making investments that positively impact the lives of older adults and seniors.

Through Budget 2023, we invested in a wide range of programs, including increasing the Seniors’ Benefit and the Newfoundland and Labrador Income Supplement.

Just last week, we took the additional step of announcing a second targeted Basic Income Program for people aged 60 to 64 who currently receive Income Support and the Community Supports Program through the Department of Health and Community Services. These same individuals will receive an increase in payments to match federal seniors’ benefits, which they will receive at age 65. This will allow for more adequate and stable financial supports.

And, in the coming months we will release a dedicated poverty reduction plan for seniors. This will complement the many programs that are already in place.

Together with community partners and all levels of governments, the Provincial Government will continue improve the overall health and well-being of seniors throughout the province, ensuring they can live healthier and more active lives.”

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