Lindo’s Seniors' Advocate Act passes unanimously

QUEEN’S PARK – NDP Laura Mae Lindo (Kitchener Centre) has released a statement after her private member’s bill, Seniors' Advocate Act, 2020 (Bill 196), was passed unanimously at second reading in the Ontario legislature Monday:

“Today’s vote is a crucial step as we seek to establish a Seniors’ Advocate for Ontario, with the power and responsibility to safeguard the interests of older adults, their caregivers and their families.

I am encouraged that all parties have supported this private member’s bill that will give older adults access to an independent voice who will stand up for their needs and fight in their corner, and grateful for all the support I’ve had from families, experts and frontline workers, who helped advocate, and earn this big step forward today.

Now, we need to fight to make sure the Ford government calls this bill for a final vote, rather than letting it fade away in order to save money. As the bill now moves on to committee the ball is in the Ford government’s court, and I will be keeping up the pressure to ensure this legislation proceeds into law.

The creation of a Seniors’ Advocate is a key part of the NDP’s long-term care plan, Ageing Ontarians Deserve the Best published earlier this month.”

Lindo will join NDP leader Andrea Horwath, and Waterloo MPP Catherine Fife, at a virtual press conference Monday at 2 p.m. to discuss the NDP’s plan long-term care plan, including her proposal to appoint a Seniors’ Advocate for Ontario.