JUNE 2025
The Canadian Association of Retired Persons (CARP) has sent formal welcome letters and a strong call to action to key members of Canada’s newly appointed federal cabinet – those with the greatest influence and responsibilities over policies that affect older Canadians. These letters, addressed to ministers and secretaries of state responsible for health, finance, public safety and treasury, underscore the urgent need for coordinated leadership on the issues that matter most to CARP members and Canada’s aging population.
Each letter outlines specific priorities that tie to the federal CARP 5 advocacy platform and each government official’s portfolio:
- Protecting and enhancing Old Age Security (OAS) benefits
- Preventing frauds and scams that target seniors
- Improving access to home care
- Eliminating mandatory Registered Retirement Income Fund (RRIF) withdrawals
- Ensuring free, equitable access to expert-recommended vaccines for seniors
With over 255,000 members across the country and 95% voting in federal elections, CARP’s voice is one that governments should take seriously. In the letters, CARP emphasizes the need for strong federal coordination across ministries and departments to ensure Canada is prepared to meet the needs of a rapidly aging population.
The letters included appendices of relevant CARP 5 Policy Briefs and were sent via mail, email and fax to ensure timely delivery. Copies were also shared with Stephanie Mclean, the Secretary of State for Seniors, to support ongoing dialogue.
CARP will continue to hold the government accountable and advocate for policies that uphold aging in dignity, health and financial security for all older Canadians.
Read our letters below:
The Honourable Evan Solomon, P.C., MP.
The Honourable Gary Anandasangaree, P.C., MP.
The Honourable Marjorie Michel, P.C., MP.
The Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, P.C., MP.
The Honourable Sean Fraser, P.C., MP.
The Honourable Shafqat Ali, P.C., MP.
