About the Department of Seniors

Overview

Legislation introduced in 1980 by the provincial government provided for the establishment of the Seniors' Secretariat. The Act designated the Ministers of Social Services, Health, Municipal Affairs and the Minister charged with the administration of the Housing Act as constituting the Secretariat, with the governor-in-Council having the authority to add other persons. The Ministers of Education & Culture, and Recreation and Fitness were added on August 17, 1982.

The staff of the Department of Seniors provide a single entry point to Government that can respond to seniors, their issues and concerns. A large portion of their work is spent finding solutions to problems presented to the department by those it serves.

It is important for seniors to express their concerns and interests to a government organization that will listen and react to their circumstances. Having the Department of Seniors staff to turn to for support and direction is a positive government initiative.

Business Plans

Business Plan 2009-2010 New
Business Plan 2008-2009
Business Plan 2007-2008
Business Plan 2006-2007
Business Plan 2005-2006
Business Plan 2004-2005

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Accountability Reports

2007-2008 Accountability Report (PDF)
2006-2007 Accountability Report (PDF)
2005-2006 Accountability Report (PDF)

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Mission Statement

The mandate of the Department of Seniors is to facilitate the planning and development of services and programs for seniors by:

coordinating plans, policies and programs presented by departments of the provincial government
developing plans, policies and programs for and with seniors in partnership with the responsible departments of government, other provincial parties and voluntary seniors' groups

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Legislation

The following legislation relating to senior citizens can be found on the Government of Nova Scotia web site:

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Stakeholder Consultation

Group of IX Nova Scotia Senior' Organizations

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Department of Seniors Staff

Valerie J. White, Chief Executive Officer		(902) 424-6322
Shalini Keel, Administrative Assistant to CEO		(902) 424-4737
Margaret Ann Bruhier, Senior Policy Analyst		(902) 424-4735
Jane Mayer, Project Officer		(902) 424-5874
Jacqueline May, Communications Advisor		(902) 424-7957
Chantal Pelham-Edwards, Corporate Strategist		(902) 424-4649
Pauline Cuvelier, Admistrative Assistant		(902) 424-5461
Jocelyn Yerxa, Community Development Coordinator		(902) 424-4779
Jacqueline Campbell, Community Development Coordinator		(902) 424-6211

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For More Information...

The Department of Seniors staff are pleased to provide information and assistance to seniors and persons acting on their behalf.

Call Our Seniors Information Line

1-800-670-0065 (toll-free)
(902) 424-0065 (Metro area)

Send Us an E-mail or Fax

Fax: 902-424-0561
E-mail: seniors@gov.ns.ca or use our secure web form.

Visit Us

Drop by our office on the 4th floor of the Dennis Building, 1740 Granville Street, Halifax (8:30 am-4:30 pm, Monday to Friday).