Mr. Speaker, today the NDP team is joining Canada's provinces and territories, as well as other countries, in recognizing World Elder Abuse Awareness Day.
Unfortunately, elder abuse is a scourge that affects seniors in many ways—financially, physically and intellectually. I would like to acknowledge the commendable efforts being made by various organizations that fight against elder abuse and neglect.
Today I remember CARP founder Lillian Morgenthau, who died last Thursday. Her vision helped raise awareness of the challenges faced by seniors and encouraged social progress so that they can live better lives without fear of discrimination.
We must build on these efforts and do even more to ensure that seniors are not placed in at-risk situations.
Let us remember that an adequate response to elder abuse requires four things: a broad basic public awareness campaign; prevention programs; adequate intervention; and advocacy services and adequate juridical measures.
We should keep in mind that the welfare and safety of seniors is a social responsibility. The NDP will continue proposing meaningful solutions to ensure that seniors can age with dignity and peace of mind.