Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The NWT Seniors’ Society has worked with the Department of Health and Social Services for over 15 years to ensure dignity, independence, participation, security and fairness for seniors across the NWT. As the population of the Northwest Territories ages, the NWT Seniors’ Society is an increasingly important resource for elders across the NWT. It is the only volunteer agency representing the individual and collective interest of all seniors in the NWT.
Its first multi-year funding agreement with Health and Social Services was in 2006 to 2010 and helped the NWT Seniors’ Society fulfill its mandate and offered some stability to their organization. To get that, I can tell you that I, at the time, relentlessly lobbied then-Minister Michael Miltenberger to consider that option, which he finally did. Multi-year funding is beneficial to the Seniors’ Society and, of course, to all NGOs. It allows them to play the delivery role of programs and get the most mileage out of our short territorial resources.
Past governments have supported the Seniors’ Society. Ten years ago documents were tabled in this House recommending some of the actions that the NWT Seniors’ Society works to implement today. These actions include strategies to prevent elder abuse, promote volunteerism, improve income support, coordinate services for seniors and improve housing. These things are among the many factors that contribute to seniors’ health and well-being.
The NWT Seniors’ Society is instrumental in connecting seniors and the support that they definitely need. They have a proven track record of getting things done for the right people who need help the most. Let’s recognize their important role in improving the quality of life for our seniors and reinstate the resources that are needed.
Later today I will be raising the issue with the Minister of Health and Social Services to act swiftly on reinstating a multi-year funding agreement with the NWT Seniors’ Society which has been the hallmark of the last Assembly. I think that issue needs to continue to go forward and recognize the respect and dignity the society needs by our government’s direct and honest support.
