Evidence of meeting #43 for Human Resources, Skills and Social Development and the Status of Persons with Disabilities in the 43rd Parliament, 2nd Session. (The original version is on Parliament’s site, as are the minutes.) The winning word was men.

A recording is available from Parliament.

On the agenda

MPs speaking

Also speaking

Mary Oko  Chair, Family Council of Copernicus Lodge, As an Individual
Kathy Majowski  Board Chair and Registered Nurse, Canadian Network for the Prevention of Elder Abuse
Doug Mackie  Chair, Canadian Men's Sheds Association
Violaine Guerin  Coordinator, Conseil régional de développement social des Laurentides

5:40 p.m.

Liberal

The Chair Liberal Sean Casey

You can ask one short and final question if you want, Ms. Gazan.

5:40 p.m.

NDP

Leah Gazan NDP Winnipeg Centre, MB

Yes, sure.

I'm going to turn to Madam Guerin.

In terms of technology, you talked a little bit about social isolation. One of the things I've been talking about is making Wi-Fi a public service. Would you agree that this would be helpful with seniors?

5:40 p.m.

Liberal

The Chair Liberal Sean Casey

Ms. Guerin, you have the final opportunity to speak. Please keep your comments brief, if possible.

5:40 p.m.

Coordinator, Conseil régional de développement social des Laurentides

Violaine Guerin

This service should be free and accessible everywhere. This would strongly support the participation of seniors, especially the most vulnerable seniors, who may not have access to new technology, as I said. It would support the inclusion of many people who unfortunately can't afford to access new technology.

5:40 p.m.

NDP

Leah Gazan NDP Winnipeg Centre, MB

Thank you so much.

5:40 p.m.

Liberal

The Chair Liberal Sean Casey

Thank you, Ms. Gazan.

I want to thank the witnesses for being with us.

Mr. Mackie, you have a very effective way of capturing and keeping the attention of your audience. I'm sure that's a big reason for the success of Men's Sheds.

Ms. Guerin, thank you for your testimony. You obviously have extensive knowledge of the topic. We appreciate your work with your community and your presence here today.

Colleagues, that is a wrap for the summer. I hope you're able to put your feet up and have a very relaxing and enjoyable summer. I look forward to seeing you all back here energized and ready to go in September.

With that, is it the—

5:40 p.m.

Liberal

Adam Vaughan Liberal Spadina—Fort York, ON

Could we please give three cheers to our chair, who has been gracious, organized, smart, helpful and a good friend to all of us?

Sean, it's never easy to herd cats like MPs are herded at times, but you've done a heck of a job. I just want to thank you for all your assistance.

5:40 p.m.

Liberal

The Chair Liberal Sean Casey

You're very gracious.

We stand adjourned.