Mr. Speaker, since 2006 we have recognized June 15 as World Elder Abuse Awareness Day as a means to promote action against elder abuse.
This year, Ottawa was chosen to host an international conference for World Elder Abuse Awareness Day 2008. This is recognition of the significant action this government has taken on this issue.
Discussion of the Canadian experience at the conference today and tomorrow will set the stage for further action around the world.
This government is helping to combat all forms of elder abuse: physical, financial, psychological and sexual. In budget 2008, our government announced significant investments to help raise awareness of elder abuse and to assist seniors in dealing with this difficult issue.
As part of this funding, a national awareness campaign will be launched this fall.
Seniors from all walks of life are vulnerable to abuse. It is happening in communities across Canada.
I invite all Canadians to help combat elder abuse by keeping their eyes open and refusing to ignore this problem.