News Release

FREDERICTON (GNB) – Premier Brian Gallant is going to Ottawa this week to make the case that New Brunswick’s unique demographic and innovative spirit make it the ideal location for a healthy seniors pilot focused on how to combat challenges produced by an aging demographic.

“Recognizing that New Brunswick is home to one of the largest percentages of people 65 and older in Canada, our province is the perfect location for a pilot project on healthy seniors,” said Gallant. “Finding innovative solutions to overcome some of the fiscal challenges that come with an aging population would benefit New Brunswick and the entire country.”

The pilot project would aim to determine best practices to keep seniors healthy and in their homes. Gallant will have the opportunity to discuss this when he meets with federal Health Minister Ginette Petitpas Taylor.

“It is one of the most significant challenges we face in New Brunswick,” said Gallant. “As well, the pilot project has the potential to spur economic opportunity in the province in the wake of concerns over the viability of the Energy East pipeline.”

While in Ottawa, Gallant will discuss the Energy East project and the challenges it is facing. He will also discuss cybersecurity, economic development and job creation during meetings with other federal cabinet ministers, including Environment and Climate Change Minister Catherine McKenna, Infrastructure and Communities Minister Amarjeet Sohi, Transport Minister Marc Garneau, National Defence Minister Harjit Singh Sajjan and Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness Minister Ralph Goodale.