Umbrella groups provide strong political voices for area seniors

by Fred Collins

Aug 01, 2007

Huntsville Seniors
Club 55

Although grey hair and liver spots have not yet become fashion statements, there are a growing number of Canadians who, by attaining the age of 65, have joined our ranks as seniors.

The 2006 census indicates that one in seven Canadians, more than four million people, have attained senior status.

Two-thirds of the one million Canadians age 80 and older are women. An increasing number of us are living longer with 4,600 Canadians reaching the ripe old age of 100.

As baby boomers approach retirement and become golden oldies, it is expected that there will be more Canadians leaving the work force than entering it, thereby leaving a dramatic shortage of skilled workers.

There are national implications to be gleaned from the census figures including the growing need for low-cost housing and additional requirement for retirement and nursing homes.

A poll released last week by Angus Reid indicates that 75 per cent of the 1,000 adults interviewed did not believe that the Canadian Pension Plan will adequately handle the financial needs of seniors in the future.

Not so according to CARP.

Their actuarial studies indicate that adequate funding is in place and will continue to be in place for the next 50 to 75 years. This must be a ray of sunshine for the 61 per cent of Canadians that are looking forward to retirement.

The needs of our older citizens may best be served through participation in local organizations associated with umbrella groups such as the United Seniors Citizens of Ontario. Politicians may listen to individual voices but respond best to well-spoken leaders representing thousands of seniors.

MP Tony Clement has initiated a petition to defeat a bill that would remove Muskoka from its northern Ontario designation causing our municipalities to lose FedNor funding for major projects.

MPs from more northerly ridings appear eager to retain that funding for their own jurisdictions. USCO club members are encouraged to support Tony Clement by signing the petition at the club within the next few days.

Congratulations to the loonie as the coin enjoys its 20th year as the Canadian dollar. Its strength in comparison to the American currency continues to be a mixed blessing with local tourism and manufacturing taking the greatest hits.

In Monday cribbage Georgina Hayward finished in first place followed by Pete Ferguson and James Tonks. Chris Karn and Evelyn Greene earned first place honours in Thursday night bridge. Beryl and Paul Clayson were second.

Among the ladies in Friday night euchre, Betty Feather was first followed by Vi McQuain. Ian Gibbard was first among the men with Fred Frey second. Anita Denny had the most lone hands.

Helen Chantler was the winner in Friday night bridge followed by Jeanne Reed and Bea Groh.

See you at the club.