The following is a statement from the Honourable John G. Abbott, Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development:

Today, I offer my sincere thanks and congratulations to Dr. Suzanne Brake, as she retires from her role as our province’s first Seniors’ Advocate.

The Office of the Seniors’ Advocate was established in 2017, and Dr. Brake was appointed as Newfoundland and Labrador’s first Seniors’ Advocate in November of that year.

In working with Dr. Brake in many capacities over the years, I have always been impressed by her dedication and commitment to serving the people of our province.  Her extensive experience in both program delivery and provincial policy development  on seniors’ issues has been a valuable asset to the Office of the Seniors’ Advocate. Dr. Brake has worked with seniors and other key stakeholders to identify, review, and analyze systemic issues; make independent recommendations; and promote awareness to the general public.

Dr. Brake released her first report in 2019, and its recommendations are guiding discussions across departments on ways to create a healthier population of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians across their lifespans.

On behalf of the people of the province, I thank Dr. Brake for her leadership and advocacy to improve services to and for seniors in the province and wish her all the best in her retirement.

A process is currently underway through the province’s Independent Appointments Commission to select a new Seniors’ Advocate. Those interested in fulfilling this role can find more information online.

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Media contact
Gina MacArthur
Children, Seniors and Social Development
709-729-3768, 730-2977
ginamacarthur@gov.nl.ca