CARP calls for equality of access to civil liberties

TORONTO July 21, 2008: CARP, representing 350,000 members across Canada has asked the Law Commission of Ontario to review how the law affects older persons so as to ensure equal access to all democratic rights and freedoms.

In its submission to the Law Commission CARP has outlined areas where ageist legislation restricts and neglects the rights of older adults as well as some recommendations on how the law might be altered to support them. CARP calls for the abolition of mandatory retirement, the end of restrictive licensing on the basis of age, the end of the “first available bed” policy, better compensation and respite program for caregivers, more needs-tested funding to be made available to low-income grandparents raising their grandchildren, increased protection against elder abuse as well as improved access to care.

For a copy of CARP’s submission Click here CARP is a national, non-partisan, non-profit organization committed to advocating for social change that will bring financial security, equitable access to health care and freedom from discrimination; ensuring that the marketplace serves the needs and expectations of our generation and providing value-added benefits, products and services to members; and building a sense of community and shared values among our members in support of CARP’s mission.

For further information, please contact:

Michelle Taylor, Communications Coordinator CARP -416.363.2277 x.236

Susan Eng, VP Advocacy CARP- 416.363.2277 x.226

Photo ©iStockphoto.com/Bora Ucak