We've heard that single female seniors are probably at the highest risk in Canada, because they may have been dependent on a spouse or partner who has now passed on, and they are by themselves with no education or training, living off OAS and GIS. It's important that we focus on that group, which is probably at the highest risk.
ESDC is responsible for developing, managing and delivering social programs and services. Amongst other aspects, ESDC is responsible for developing policies and programs related to learning, skills development and labour market participation, as well as for ensuring labour market efficiency. I think a comment was made about finding the right fit, looking for a return on investment with an aging population. Right now, there are more seniors than youth in Canada; it's a higher demographic. There are more seniors than those 15 and younger. This group is going to be growing very quickly. Over the next 13 years, one in four people will be a senior. The needs for palliative care, geriatrics, and home care present great opportunities for getting people trained and ready to take care of this aging population, and I don't see that happening. I don't see a national plan to prepare for this aging population. Can somebody comment on that? It's a great opportunity.
Slide 9 shows that community and social service workers are at the same wage scale as food service workers. If we are not paying people adequately, if they go to school to be trained, to be involved in geriatrics, palliative care, or senior home care, and they are being paid the same amount they would get in food services, will they make that investment in education and get a return on their investment? How do we prepare, as Canada, if we are not planning for it? Do you have any comments?