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94th Class of the Royal Military College of Canada

Date: May 18, 2013 Kingston, Ontario - Acting Sub-Lieutenant Colin Shannon proudly poses with his father Brian, his sister Laura and the Honourable Peter MacKay, Minister of National Defence. Acting Sub-Lieutenant Shannon's mom Bernadette watched his graduation through a Skype connection and exchanged a few happy words with her son and Minister MacKay. The Shannon family is from New Glasgow, Nova Scotia _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Royal Humane Association Bravery Awards Presented to New Glasgow Police Officer and Citizen front row (l to r) Barbara Smith, Jamie Jardine, bravery award recipient Donald Gunton back row (l to r) Trenton Mayor Glen MacKinnon, New Glasgow-Trenton Police Chief Delaney Chisholm, bravery award recipient Cst. Anthony Thomas, Hon. Peter MacKay, New Glasgow Mayor Barrie MacMillan Today we are here to recognize and honour the bravery of New Glasgow citizen Donald Gunton and Cst. Anthony Thomas of the New Glasgow Police Service, whose actions saved the life of Jamie Jardine. Both of these men possess the rare characteristic vital to bravery – self-sacrifice in the wake of another’s safety. With disregard for their own safety, two determined citizens – one motivated to serve and protect and another acting as a Good Samaritan – were brought together under the mutual goal of saving a life. On Tuesday, July 05th, 2011 after the observance of a wheelchair going over a steep bank towards the East River at high tide. Cst. Thomas arrived on the Sampson Trail and was met by Donald Gunton. Quickly, it was realized that Jamie Jardine, was confined to his wheelchair and almost completely submerged in the East River. Realizing the direness of the situation - due to the threat of the rising tide to the immobilized Mr. Jardine - Cst. Anthony Thomas, without hesitation and with a profound sense of duty, entered the river up to his chest and began the rigorous task of pulling the 200 pound wheelchair towards the shore. Mr. Jardine was positioned on uneven underwater terrain and just inches away from a deep channel in the river. After direction from Cst. Thomas, Mr. Gunton attempted to locate a rope out of the trunk of the police car. Mr. Gunton, however, was unable to locate a rope so he began climbing down the bank. He then selflessly entered the East River to assist Cst. Thomas and braced the wheelchair from sliding into of the main channel of the river. He was also vital to positioning the semi-conscious Mr. Jardine’s head above water to avoid drowning. These actions were undertaken on an extremely slippery and hazardous footing, inches away from another steep drop into the river channel. Cst. Thomas & Mr. Gunton are an inspiration to all Canadians; they answered the call when a fellow citizen was in need. For their courageous efforts in saving a person from a life threatening situation the Bronze Medal for Bravery is awarded to Cst. Anthony Thomas and to Donald Gunton. The Royal Canadian Humane Association was incorporated by Royal Charter in 1894 and is one of the oldest institutions in the nation that recognizes heroism and bravery. The age of this institution demonstrates Canada’s long tradition of bravery and courageous acts among its citizens. I am also pleased to present an Honourary Testimonial Certificate to Ms. Barbara Smith, who keen senses altered her to something unusual happening on the west side of the river as she was driving her car across the bridge and for her quick actions to alter others of the need for help. Hon. Peter MacKay [..]

Investing in Youth Employment in Central Nova

Date: May 13, 2013 The Government of Canada is providing support for youth in the northern Nova Scotia to help them gain the skills, knowledge and experience they need to enter and succeed in the job market. 'Youth employment programs are part of our federal government’s strategy to help our youth develop the skills and gain the experience they need to connect with job opportunities,' said Minister MacKay. 'It is more important than ever that our youth participate and succeed in the job market. Today’s youth are tomorrow’s workforce, so by investing in them we are helping contribute to Canada’s long-term growth and overall prosperity'. Summer Street Industries is receiving more than $233,000 from the Skills Link program to help youth with disabilities overcome barriers to employment. Skills Link is part of the Government of Canada’s Youth Employment Strategy (YES). Through teambuilding activities and workshops, participants will develop life and job skills such as effective communication and computer knowledge. They will also benefit from work experience through job placements in various sectors, including retail. 'The Summer Street Society would like to thank the Government of Canada for supporting this important project,' said Bob Bennett, Executive Director, Summer Street Industries. 'Without this partnership and support, this project would not be possible. Many great things are happening in our area because we all believe people with intellectual disability can make a difference.' With annual funding of approximately $300 million, YES helps youth, particularly those facing barriers to employment, obtain career information, develop skills, find jobs and stay employed. YES includes the Skills Link and Career Focus programs and the Canada Summer Jobs initiative, which creates thousands of job opportunities for students every summer. Economic Action Plan 2013 proposes an additional investment of $70 million over three years to support 5 000 more paid internships. This is further to the extra $50 million that was invested through Economic Action Plan 2012 to enhance YES with a new initiative that connects young Canadians with jobs that are in high demand and helps them develop tangible skills and gain work experience. Youth employment programs are part of the Government of Canada’s broader strategy to connect Canadians with available jobs. Economic Action Plan 2013 proposes new measures to equip Canadians with the skills and training they need. These include the Canada Job Grant, creating opportunities for apprentices and providing support to under-represented groups such as people with disabilities, Aboriginal people, newcomers and youth. To learn more about Canada’s Economic Action Plan, visit actionplan.gc.ca. The Government of Canada is helping youth plan their careers, learn new skills and find jobs through enhanced online services available at youth.gc.ca. [..]

Canada Summer Jobs 2013

Date: May 10, 2013 For many students, summer is a time to gain valuable work experience and earn money for the upcoming school year. More Central Nova students will now have this opportunity as our federal Conservative government invests in the Canada Summer Jobs program. Canada Summer Jobs provides funding to not-for-profit organizations, public-sector employers and small businesses to create summer job opportunities for young people who are full-time students and intend to return to school in the next school year. This season 277 jobs will be created for students in Central Nova and a total of 36,000 positions across our country. This investment ensures we meet demand during a busy tourist season and, in turn, strengthens our local economies and our communities. In 2011, our federal Conservative Government permanently increased the annual budget for Canada Summer Jobs by $10 million, bringing the total budget to $107.5 million. Youth employment programs are part of our government's strategy to help youth who are eager to develop their skills, build their resume, and connect with job opportunities. Skills Link and Career Focus are other successful examples of federally sponsored youth training programs. I would like to thank Summer Street Industries and Career Connections in Pictou County and CEED and the Career Resource Centre in Antigonish for their partnership in delivering these programs. Employers are at various stages of the summer hiring process, so interested students should keep an eye out for opportunities in local papers, community bulletin boards, notices in schools and on websites. Students can also visit www.jobbank.gc.ca and the local Service Canada office for summer job opportunities. Through these initiatives and others, our federal government is helping Canada’s youth now and in the future. It is more important than ever that our youth participate and succeed in the job market. The benefits are felt by students, employers, the community, and the local economy of Central Nova. Today’s youth are tomorrow’s leaders. As we invest in Central Nova's youth we are helping contribute to Canada’s long-term growth, competitiveness, and overall prosperity. Hon. Peter MacKay, MP for Central Nova [..]

Support for Guysborough County's Community Infrastructure

Date: May 04, 2013 A number of community infrastructure upgrades are underway in Guysborough County, thanks to support from the Government of Canada. The Honourable Peter MacKay, Minister of National Defence and Regional Minister for Nova Scotia, today announced federal support for three projects in Guysborough County on behalf of the Honourable Gail Shea, Minister of National Revenue and Minister for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA). “Our Government is committed to creating jobs, growth and long-term prosperity in our communities across Canada,” said Minister MacKay. “That is why we are proud to support upgrades to the Canso Hazel Hill Fire Hall, the Whitehead Canal and Camp Glasgow. These investments will help to boost economic activity as well as create safe and accessible community infrastructure facilities for years to come in Guysborough County.” The Government of Canada’s combined investment of $388,312 supports upgrades to three community facilities. The Municipality of the District of Guysborough is receiving $169,842 through the Community Infrastructure Improvement Fund (CIIF) to revitalize the Canso Hazel Hill Fire Hall, including upgrades to roofing, siding, overhead doors, interior and entrance doors, ceiling tiles, painting and electrical work. The Municipality is also receiving $167,023 through the Innovative Communities Fund (ICF) to support critical repairs to the historic Whitehead Canal, including crib replacement, reconstruction of the rock wall, backfilling of washouts, drainage work, removal of seaweed and gravel and the addition of armour stone rip rap to prevent future damage. This follows the transfer of ownership of the canal from Public Works and Government Services Canada to the Municipality. The Chedabucto Bay Folk Society is receiving $51,447 through the CIIF to complete upgrades to the Stan Rogers Folk Festival’s Camp Glasgow facility, including roof replacement, electrical upgrades, the addition of an outdoor sports court, upgrades to the water system, improved signage and security and accessibility ramps. "The Municipality of the District of Guysborough is poised for growth in anticipation of several large-scale projects and in particular the large-scale wind energy project planned for this immediate area,” said Lloyd Hines, Warden of the Municipality of the District of Guysborough. “Today’s announcement of upgrades to the Canso Hazel Hill Fire Hall, Whitehead Canal and Stan Fest Facilities supports the continued well-being of our communities as we take advantage of new opportunities for economic growth.” “The Chedabucto Bay Folk Society is committed to growing cultural activity and stimulating economic development in northeastern Nova Scotia,” said Bill MacMillan, Chair of the Chedabucto Bay Folk Society’s Board of Directors. “These important upgrades to the Camp Glasgow facility assist us in fulfilling that commitment, by providing accommodation for performers at the Stan Rogers Folk Festival and a venue that can be used for events year-round.” For information on ACOA’s programs, visit our website at http://www.acoa-apeca.gc.ca. [..]

Canada Search and Rescue: The Path Ahead

Date: May 03, 2013 The Government of Canada supports Canadians in times of need. The Canadian Armed Forces works with the Canadian Coast Guard, the RCMP, provinces, territories and Canadians to respond to calls for assistance when disasters and emergencies strike. Highly skilled Search and Rescue technicians work tirelessly to save others in dangerous and life-threatening situations. On average, the Canadian Armed Forces and Canadian Coast Guard are aware of over 9,000 incidents every year and assist 20,000 people a year. With the world's second largest land mass surrounded by the world's longest coastline, Canada is one of the most challenging countries in the world in which to conduct search and rescue operations. In fact, our operations cover an area twenty-six times the size of France. Canadians can be assured that we have one of the most effective search and rescue systems in the world. This week, the Auditor General noted our system was adequate for Canadians. I feel an adequate system isn't good enough when it comes to saving the lives of our fellow Canadians. As Minister of National Defence and lead federal Minister for Search and Rescue, I made significant announcements to support and enhance Canada's search and rescue systems, including: - The first standardized, comprehensive Quadrennial Search and Rescue Review involving all partners; - Flexibility of thirty minute response times; - Better tracking and reporting of aircraft and crew availability; - An investment of $16.2 million for search and rescue satellites; - An investment of $2 million to update the Joint Rescue Coordination Centre in Halifax to better serve those in need; and, - An improved Canadian beacon registry website at www.cbr-rcb.ca. As part of this exercise, savings and efficiencies in the Department of National Defence, including some of the funds currently allocated to supporting the Challenger fleet, will be re-allocated to frontline priorities that include search and rescue as a 'no fail mission' for the Canadian Armed Forces. Canadians benefit from one of the best search and rescue systems in the world and I am committed to making it even better. Hon. Peter MacKay Minister of National Defence MP for Central Nova [..]

Investing in Innovative Ideas and Local Opportunites

Date: May 02, 2013 ANTIGONISH (NS) - St. Francis Xavier University is conducting a study to determine the viability of an innovation centre in Northeastern Nova Scotia, with support from the Government of Canada. The Honourable Peter MacKay, Minister of National Defence, Regional Minister for Nova Scotia and MP for Central Nova, announced funding for the study today, on behalf of the Honourable Gail Shea, Minister of National Revenue and Minister for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA). 'Our Government is committed to building a strong, competitive regional economy,' said Minister MacKay. 'We are investing in local, innovative opportunities that will help create and maintain meaningful jobs for our workforce and contribute to the quality of life for our rural communities'. The Government of Canada is investing $34,743 in the study through ACOA’s Innovative Communities Fund (ICF). The investment enables StFX to conduct a regional market analysis, as well as undertake consultations and research to develop a sustainable model for an innovation centre to meet the needs of the region. Such a centre could serve as a regional incubator for research and development, innovation, business growth, job creation and commercialization of intellectual property. 'StFX University has a proven track record of connecting research and innovation with community and enterprise,' said Dr. Sean Riley, President of St. Francis Xavier University. 'An Innovation Centre located at StFX is the natural next step, further enabling the partnership to collaborate and take advantage of our region's resources to stimulate job creation, support product development, and attract investment to our local communities.' [..]

Increasing Opportunities for Women in Non-Traditional Roles: Call for Project Proposals

Date: May 01, 2013 Canadians know that women play a key role in our country’s success. Women represent nearly half the Canadian workforce but are under represented in many occupations. This is especially true in the trades, science, engineering and technology sectors. As recently as 2009, women accounted for 22% of the natural sciences and engineering workforce. In 2012, women represented only 4% of those in construction trades and 20% of those in forestry, mining, oil and gas. In fact, 67% of women employed in Canada in 2009 worked in education, nursing, administrative, sales, and service occupations. The federal Conservative government knows that investing in women’s economic prosperity and security is not only the right thing to do, but also the smart thing to do. In today’s competitive global marketplace, Canada needs to have a well-trained and educated workforce to be successful. Too often barriers can discourage greater workforce participation, especially among women. Removing these barriers and making Canada’s labour market more adaptable will help ensure our long-term economic growth. That is why our federal Conservative government has increased women’s funding to its highest level ever, supporting over 600 projects since 2007. This includes $19 million for community based projects, more than $6 million for projects that support women in non-traditional occupations and $57 million to help end violence against women and girls. We also recently announced a new call for projects to increase opportunities for women in non-traditional roles - Opening Doors: Economic Opportunities for Women. Our government is now accepting proposals that advance more women into non-traditional occupations. These projects demonstrate our federal government’s recognition of the benefits to working with partners to identify needs at the community level and develop the tools and resources to meet those needs. More information about this new call for proposals can be found at www.women.gc.ca. Economic Action Plan 2013 maintains our Government’s commitment to Canadians to create jobs, growth and long-term prosperity. To achieve these goals, it is essential that women and girls have the opportunity to develop their skills, further their education, and advance their careers in all sectors of our economy. Hon. Peter MacKay MP for Central Nova [..]

Cadet Glider Program Here To Stay

Date: May 01, 2013 Cadet organizations across Canada play an important role in promoting good citizenship, leadership, community service and physical fitness among young Canadians. I believe in the merits of this program and the benefits it provides to Canadian communities are unparalled. In fact, the Cadet program is the best youth development program in Canada. It is regrettable that some opposition members attempt to misinform Canadians scare our fine young cadets, and their parents. As I informed the House of Commons, "I can assure the House that the cadet program will continue to enjoy the important use of gliders." There are to be no reductions in resources allocated to the Cadet glider program or any Cadet program. The Cadet program is here to stay. Hon. Peter MacKay [..]

Combating Terrorism

Date: April 25, 2013 Nova Scotians and all Canadians were shocked and saddened to learn of the senseless and tragic Boston City Marathon bombings. Boston and Nova Scotia share a long history and close relationship of support, generosity, and respect. Our thoughts and prayers will remain with our Boston neighbours over the coming weeks. The first responsibility of any government is to ensure the safety and security of its citizens. Our government takes this responsibility very seriously and we have strengthened the legislative and operational framework of our security agencies to carry out that mandate. September 11, 2001 shaped our security environment of the past decade and necessitated that Canada confront terrorist activity. Global conflicts and the causes that drive terrorism have continued to evolve. This past week, our federal Conservative government passed important legislation in Parliament, the Combating Terrorism Act. This new legislation expands upon the previous Anti-Terrorism Act to provide additional tools for law enforcement to help uncover, disrupt, and prosecute terrorism plots and threats. Federal forces arrested two individuals in Toronto just days ago, breaking up a dangerous terrorist operation. Canada works very closely with our international partners, particularly the United States, to combat terrorism. Intelligence sharing, collaboration, modern technology and research are key to countering violent extremism. Our federal Conservative government is investing resources to ensure Canadian institutions are better prepared and have greater resilience to public safety and security threats. We set forth the Canada First Defence Strategy to ensure the Canadian Forces are a modern, combat-capable, flexible force, able to defend Canada and Canadian interest at home and abroad. Canada does not tolerate terrorist activity and will not be used as a safe haven for terrorists or those who support terrorist activity. We are better equipped and better prepared to deal with the security challenges of the 21st century. Canada remains vigilant against the threats of terrorism and continues to take action to ensure the security and the safety of all Canadians. Hon. Peter MacKay MP for Central Nova [..]

Celebrating Our Incredible Community Volunteers

Date: April 24, 2013 Big Brothers Big Sisters Bowl for Kids Sake 2013 with (left to right) Cst. Ken MacDonald, Mayor Barrie MacMillan, Margie Grant-Walsh and Roxanne MacLean.-Swinamer On the occasion of the 71st annual National Volunteer Week (April 21-27), The Honourable Peter MacKay, Minister of National Defence and Member of Parliament for Central Nova, congratulates the millions of Canadians who volunteer to help their communities across the country every year. “Volunteers are involved in almost every facet of our lives. They are the heart of our communities, always the first to lend a helping hand and give selflessly of themselves for the benefit of others, “said Minister MacKay. “During National Volunteer Week, and throughout the year, I extend my sincere appreciation for the invaluable work and time volunteers contribute to helping build a stronger Canada.” Volunteerism is important in improving the quality of life of many Canadians, building social networks and improving intergenerational relations. According to the Canada Survey of Giving, Volunteering and Participating, each year, more than 13 million Canadians volunteer over 2 billion hours of their time to charitable and not-for-profit organizations. To further recognize the outstanding voluntary contributions made in Canada, the Government introduced the Prime Minister’s Volunteer Awards. Canadians can show appreciation for exceptional volunteers in their communities by nominating them for one of the 17 awards. The second call for nominations closed on April 15, 2013. More information about the Prime Minister’s Volunteer Awards, including the first award recipients, can be found at www.pm.gc.ca/awards or www.facebook.com/PrixduPMAwards. National Volunteer Week is the largest celebration of citizen participation in Canada. The Government of Canada thanks the many Canadians who dedicate their skills and time to make this country a better place to live. For more information on how you can participate in National Volunteer Week, please visit volunteer.ca. [..]

Louisbourg 300 Celebrates

Date: April 21, 2013 Louisbourg, Nova Scotia, April 21, 2013 – Cape Breton’s tourism industry is getting a boost with its efforts to attract more visitors to the Island. The Government of Canada is investing over $1.3 million in Louisbourg 300 celebrations as organizers gear up to attract visitors to the Island and deliver special programming this summer for the 300th anniversary of the founding of Louisbourg. 'Louisbourg300 celebrations will honour and embrace all cultures with connections and legacies linked to 18th century Louisbourg,' said Minister Peter MacKay. 'Our government is working to promote our cultural legacy, grow tourism in Nova Scotia by encouraging visitors from across Canada and the world, and build on Cape Breton’s rich history.' 'Our Government is pleased to celebrate 300 years of Louisbourg,' said Minister Kent. 'These unforgettable experiences will recognize a critical chapter of history in North America and help better connect Canadians with this national treasure.' Parks Canada will host events to mark Louisbourg300 at the Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site from June to October to keep the young entertained and the “experienced” traveller captivated. Programming highlights include a cultural fair and encampment, culinary events, 300 fiddlers on the waterfront and the LouisRocks concert series with headline acts Joel Plaskett, Matt Anderson and JP Cormier. Parks Canada will also take Louisbourg300 on the road with events in communities across Cape Breton Island and in some of Canada’s biggest cities. Funding by the Government of Canada will support this priority celebration through new and exciting visitor programs at the Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site, and through efforts to promote Louisbourg300 celebrations. Funding from Enterprise Cape Breton Corporation and Canadian Heritage will support Destination Cape Breton Association and Fortress Louisbourg Association efforts to celebrate this milestone anniversary. Parks Canada is working closely with Cape Breton Regional Municipality, Fortress Louisbourg Association, Mi’kmaq, the community of Louisbourg and a number of other Cape Breton communities on Louisbourg300 events and activities. [..]

Colonel Commandant George Canyon and Minister MacKay met with Central Nova Cadets

Date: April 13, 2013 Minister Peter MacKay, along with air, army, and sea Cadets from around Central Nova gathered at the New Glasgow Armoury to honour the Colonel Commandant of the Royal Canadian Air Cadets George Canyon. George was appointed Honorary Colonel for the Canadian Air Force at 14 Wing Greenwood in Nova Scotia 2008 and appointed as the first-ever Colonel Commandant of the Royal Canadian Air Cadets in Dec 2011. He is a former air cadet with the 374 F/LT Chisholm Squadron. He is also the national spokesperson for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, donates his time and talents to numerous children's charities, and is a Canadian Country Music Award winner, Juno Award winner, East Coast Music Award winner, and SOCAN Music Award winner. Most recently, George was awarded the Queen's Diamond Jubilee Medal. _______________________________________________________________________________________________________ Telephone Town Hall Our federal Conservative government remains committed to delivering your needs and interests. Since 2006, our government has invested over $410 million in Central Nova. On April 10th, I hosted a live telephone town hall with Central Nova residents to answer their questions about the issues that most affect our communities. We also discussed our federal Conservative government is addressing many of your concerns. Residents from all corners of the riding were invited to participate and share their thoughts on issues that affect our lives and the lives of our loved ones. Four thousand people from our area joined the call and many important issues were raised, including: Job creation; Economic Issues; Employment Insurance; Shipbuilding opportunities; The sustainability of our fishing and agricultural industries; Affordable housing; Health Care and social services programs; Support for post-secondary students; and, Support for our military. I thank all of those who participated for taking time from their busy schedules to join me on the call. I also thank Central Nova for their support. A poll from that call confirmed that 70% of you feel as though Central Nova has a voice in Ottawa. As well, over sixty percent of participants are aware of our government’s Economic Action Plan 2013. This plan helps create jobs, invests in public infrastructure, keeps taxes low, and provides support to businesses, families, and seniors. I will continue to work hard to ensure your concerns and priorities are heard in our nation’s capital and I intend to share the issues raised on the call with my caucus colleagues. If you missed this call but would like to discuss an issue please contact one of my constituency offices. Hon. Peter MacKay, MP for Central Nova [..]

Statement on the Passing of Rehtaeh Parsons

Date: April 10, 2013 'It is with extreme sadness that our community has borne witness to developments regarding the death of Rehtaeh Parsons. Many of our thoughts and prayers have been with Rehtaeh's family as they cope with their tragic loss. Indeed, whenever a young Canadian suffers as Rehtaeh suffered we all wish to support her and those who love her. I believe that there has been a sincere outpouring of grief and concern over Rehtaeh's death and I hope that her loved ones find some solace in the support of Nova Scotians. As a community, we need to treat youth crime seriously and never forget the victims of crime. We need to ensure that those who commit serious violent offences are sentenced appropriately. As the province reviews Rehtaeh's case, I want to assure those closest to Rehtaeh, as well as the larger community, that we will continue to ensure police and prosecutors have the tools they need to investigate and prosecute assaults. This is a tragic death. Nazanin and I extend our heartfelt sorrow to all those who knew and loved Rehtaeh Parsons.' Peter [..]

Telephone Town Hall - Join in April 10th

Date: April 06, 2013 Friends, this Wednesday April 10th, at 6 pm, I will be hosting a telephone town hall to discuss and answer questions about the work of our federal government and how it affects you. To join me and your Central Nova neighbours on the call, you can provide your phone number to my constituency office. Once you register, you will receive a call that will connect you to the conversation, at no cost to you. You can also call in on Wednesday prior to 6pm at 1-877-229-8493 and enter code 111641. [..]

HELPING THE FINANCIAL SECURITY OF SENIORS

Date: April 05, 2013 Canadians are living longer, healthier, and more active lives. Our federal Conservative government values the contributions that seniors continue to make to our country and are working hard to improve their daily lives. To increase the financial security of seniors we have expanded and implemented many tax relief measures and programs: Pension Income Splitting; Increasing the Age Credit Amount; Doubled the Pension Income Credit; Tax Free Savings Accounts; Affordable Housing Initiative; Home Adaptations for Seniors’ Independence; and, New Horizons for Seniors and Targeted Initiative for Older Workers Our federal government implemented the largest Guaranteed Income Supplement increase in the last 25 years. More than 380,000 seniors have been removed from tax rolls and two and a half billion dollars in tax relief is realized annually. The federal government provides income support for seniors through the public pension system, primarily the Old Age Security and Guaranteed Income Supplement. This year these two programs put more than $70 billion in the hands of Canadian seniors. The Canada Pension Plan, funded by employees and employers, has been confirmed by the Chief Actuary of Canada as financially sound and fully sustainable for generations to come. Provinces are receiving record high transfer support from our federal Conservative government. Health transfers will grow four percent and social transfers will grow three percent annually over the next several years. Please remember to file your annual income tax return by April 30th to ensure uninterrupted receipt and eligibility of benefits like GIS, the Allowance, OAS, and GST Rebate. Our government will continue to develop policies and programs to meet the evolving needs of seniors today and in the future. Please visit www.seniors.gc.ca for more details. Hon. Peter MacKay MP for Central Nova [..]