Earlier today Premier Christy Clark announced that MLA Michelle Stilwell was appointed as the new Parliamentary Secretary for Seniors. Stilwell will continue to act as Parliamentary Secretary for Healthy Living.
“Michelle has brought passion to her role as Parliamentary Secretary for Healthy Living, “said Health Minister Terry Lake. “I am confident that Michelle will apply the same dedication and passion as she adds the seniors’ portfolio to her role.”
Stilwell was elected MLA for Parksville-Qualicum on May 14, 2013. In addition to her role as Parliamentary Secretary, Stilwell serves as Government Caucus Chair and is a member of the Cabinet Committee on Secure Tomorrow and Treasury Board.
“I am very pleased to support Health Minister Lake with my new appointment as the Parliamentary Secretary responsible for Seniors,” said Stilwell. “I represent a constituency that has one of the highest percentages of older residents in the country and recognize the unique needs and contributions of this vital population. I look forward to working with the ministry and with the newly appointed Seniors Advocate, Isobel Mackenzie, as government continues to ensure the very best supports and care for B.C. seniors.”
“We very much look forward to working with Michelle in the coming months,” says Daniel Fontaine, CEO for the BC Care Providers Association. “She has demonstrated a keen interest in seniors issues and the continuing care sector since being elected as an MLA last year. As such, we are confident she will be a strong voice for seniors and those responsible for caring for them.”
Former parliamentary secretary for seniors Linda Larson will assume a new position as Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Social Development and Social Innovation for Accessibility.
“One of the things I am hearing while touring the province and listening to seniors, is that their needs to be a single point of access so that seniors can easily obtain the information, services and supports they need,” said Seniors Advocate Isobel Mackenzie. “I know it will take a strong foundation of collaboration to meet the individual needs of older British Columbians and I look forward to working with the new Parliamentary Secretary for Seniors as we work together to improve seniors’ care.”
