Annual Meeting of the New Brunswick Senior Citizens’ Federation

Discussions to extend the home-heating program and improve services for New Brunswick seniors

MONCTON, September 29, 2009- The provincial home-heating program and services offered to seniors will be discussed during the 41^th annual general meeting of the New Brunswick Senior Citizens’ Federation slated for October 6 to 9, 2009 in St. Andrews. Approximately 250 people will attend the organization’s annual meeting. 

The organization will be focusing on several topics to improve the well-being of the 50-plus community in New Brunswick. Discussions will focus on the home-heating program, ambulance fees, the lack of nursing home beds and improving services for New Brunswick seniors. The New Brunswick Senior Citizens’ Federation is in talks with the Government of New Brunswick to extend its home-heating program to more New Brunswickers. 

"With the aging population and many people in the province living in a low-income bracket , many New Brunswick seniors are unable to afford basic things such as heating, medical supplies and medication. We want to improve the situation and make a difference for seniors in New Brunswick", indicates Mr. Ralph Smith, President of the New Brunswick Senior Citizens’ Federation Inc.  

Extending Medicare coverage, improving coverage for services and supplies for people suffering from diabetes and other conditions and extending the length of passports beyond five years are among other topics to be discussed. 

The Honourable Brian Kenny, Minister of State for Seniors, will be a keynote speaker during the event. Other speakers include John Ferguson, Consultant for Sport, Recreation and Active Living of the Department of Wellness, Culture and Sport; and Dr. Shawn M.C. Robinson, Research Scientist, from the St. Andrews Biological Station. 

The Federation is holding its annual recruitment campaign until January 2010. The NBSCF hopes to recruit 5,000 new members per year before 2011. The Federation currently has 20,000 members throughout the province. 

Individuals who wish to attend the Annual General Meeting can register on site on October 6 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.