FEBRUARY 23, 2006
Members Statements
Seniors in the 21st century

R. Cantelon: I'm speaking today about 21st-century seniors. As we look forward to the future, we know that seniors are the fastest-growing demographic in the province. We have all heard the statistics that today one in seven British Columbians is a senior. But in the not so distant future, that group will include one in every four people. I have to admit that like many of the colleagues in this assembly, I have a special interest in this fast-growing group.

           But what I would like to talk about today is something I would call 21st-century seniors. This refers to the increasingly changing lives that our seniors live and how we can provide them — how we have a responsibility, indeed, to provide them — with the support they deserve. Our seniors today are more physically active and healthier than ever before and continue to make significant contributions to our community and our society for many years beyond their 65th birthday.

           In 2007 my community, Nanaimo, will be hosting the B.C. Seniors Games. I invite all British Columbians, and particularly those in this House, to participate and excel in the games that will be held in Nanaimo. I promise you a welcome and a great reception.

           It's important, though, that whenever our seniors decide they want to relax and enjoy the fruits of their lifelong efforts, we have a great system of support there for them. That is why our government has made it one of our five great goals to provide the best system of support in Canada for seniors.

           In my constituency of Nanaimo-Parksville we've already seen a commitment to reaching that goal. Just a few weeks ago the Vancouver Island Health Authority announced that the region will be receiving 435 beds. I would ask the House to join me in showing our appreciation for the outstanding contribution seniors have made and continue to make in each and every one of our constituencies.

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