Older Canadians are important members of our communities. The Government of Canada is seeking advice on issues to inform ongoing work that helps Canadians age with dignity and in the best possible health, while enjoying social and economic security.
Today, the Minister of Seniors, Kamal Khera, and the Minister of Health, Jean-Yves Duclos, announced the appointment of a new member to the National Seniors Council (NSC):
- Dr. Olive Bryanton, appointed for a three-year term
Olive Bryanton has been a fervent activist for seniors' well-being for all of her professional life. She helped established a Seniors' Centre in Charlottetown and the Seniors College of Prince Edward Island, affiliated with the University of Prince Edward Island. Dr. Bryanton also served as the first President. She received a doctorate in Philosophy, Education from the University of Prince Edward Island in 2018 with a PhD dissertation, titled Pioneers in Aging: Voices of women 85 years and older aging in place in rural communities, which shows her passion for defending the best interests of older adults.
The Ministers also announced that current NSC member Nora Spinks' term has been extended to June 30, 2024, and that she will serve as Chairperson for the remainder of her term. Ministers Khera and Duclos take this opportunity to extend their thanks to Dr. Suzanne Dupuis-Blanchard for her work as Chairperson of the Council since 2018.
Since 2007, the NSC has examined issues related to the social isolation of seniors, the participation of older workers in the labour force, positive and active aging, volunteerism, low income among seniors and elder and financial abuse. Recently, they have examined issues emerging from the COVID-19 pandemic and provided Ministers with advice on these matters. Currently, the NSC is undertaking a review of, and providing recommendations on various measures that support older Canadians in aging at home.
The NSC is made up of experts on issues relevant to aging and older adults. Members engage with older adults, stakeholders and experts to provide advice to the Government of Canada on matters related to the health, well-being and quality of life of seniors.
Members are nominated based on their expertise and experience related to seniors issues. They are appointed by the Governor in Council on the recommendation of the Minister of Seniors and the Minister of Health.
The Government is committed to open, transparent and merit-based processes for selecting Governor in Council appointees. Appointees play a fundamental role in Canadian democracy as they serve on commissions, boards, Crown corporations, agencies and tribunals across the country.
