Minister Seamus O’Regan resigned from cabinet this past week, with Steven MacKinnon filling the new role of minister of labour and seniors.

Minister O’Regan, thank you for stepping up for seniors with all that you could do. Seamus O’Regan was a minister who believed in the power of the CARP voice, in seniors and in the work we do for older Canadians and their families. During his time as minister, he and his staff were a collaborative partner with CARP, who listened to the voice of older Canadians across the country.

CARP was in the midst of discussions about how the Department of Labour could support the need for more workers by making it easier for seniors to return to or stay in the workforce should they wish to. Discussions regarding the effect of tax clawbacks on older workers and how that problem might be addressed were also underway.

While changes in ministries can cause a loss of momentum for advocacy, CARP is hopeful that these conversations can continue.

As a non-partisan advocacy body working for seniors, CARP welcomes the new minister, the Hon. Stephen MacKinnon and we look forward to an imminent meeting to discuss CARP’s priorities in healthcare, housing and the cost of living.  After all, much work remains to be done, regardless of  how the federal election date plays out.

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