Care to Chat wrap-up: Canada Cares and the candidates debate

At Elim Village in Surrey on Tuesday morning an audience of approximately 150 listened in on an all-candidate debate on seniors living and wellness, featuring representatives of Canada’s four major political parties. Titled Canada Cares 2.0: Putting Seniors on the National Agenda, it was a chance for both residents at Elim Village and many from the continuing care sector to hear how each party will take on the challenges that arise from our aging demographic.

“We would like to thank all four of the candidates who participated, each of whom brought their passion and perspectives, while informing the audience of the official positions of each party when it comes to these important issues for seniors,” says Daniel Fontaine, CEO of BC Care Providers and EngAge BC. “Now it is time for the election campaign and to see how these political platforms on seniors care and other topics resonate with voters.”

The panel, moderated by BCCPA VP, Public Affairs Mike Klassen, featured the following candidates:

Ken Hardie, Liberal Party candidate for Fleetwood-Port Kells (incumbent)
Beverly “Pixie” Hobby, Green Party candidate for Surrey-White Rock
Annie Ohana, NDP candidate for Fleetwood-Port Kells
Shinder Purewal, Conservative Party candidate for Fleetwood-Port Kells

“We would like to thank Elim Village for inviting us to their beautiful site and the Oasis auditorium to hold this event. In particular, our thanks goes out to so many from the community who came out to listen,” adds Fontaine. “Getting engaged is really is what makes our democracy work.”

BCCPA/EngAge BC is grateful to all of our sponsors — Rexall Health Solutions, Arjo, Medical Pharmacies and Sobey’s/Pharmacy at Safeway for their support of Care to Chat. Our next Care to Chat will be announced in the coming weeks.