November 2012 Parliamentary Report

Seniors Advisory Committee
 
I recently welcomed Sue Morgan as a member of this helpful group.  Sue is also the Chair of the Mayor’s Advisory Council for Kitchener Seniors. She is a well-respected community member. I value her judgement.
 
Allan Nanders, raised an important issue recently.  He pointed out that Provincial medicare plans are not reciprocal.  An Ontario resident injured while in B.C. might be liable for the difference between B.C. hospital rates and lesser O.H.I.P. rate.  This will surprise many Canadians and discourage Canadian travel by those unable to qualify for extra health coverage.
 
As a result, I asked the federal Minister of Health to initiate discussion with provinces about honouring each others’ rates.  We are all Canadians and should receive full coverage throughout Canada!
 
Great Lakes Nutrient Initiative
 
The Great Lakes Nutrient Initiative will improve the scientific understanding about recurrent toxic and nuisance algae in the Great Lakes which can lead to increased water treatment needs and disruptions to utilities by clogged water intakes. They also have negative effects on tourism, fishing, and recreational activities such as swimming.
 
This Initiative will focus efforts geographically on Lake Erie, the Great Lake most impacted by toxic and nuisance algae. The science and technique developed through the Initiative will be transferable to the other Great Lakes and other bodies of water in Canada.
 
The Great Lakes Nutrient Initiative will also deliver on our commitments under the recently amended Canada-United States Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement.
 
November is Financial Literacy Month
 
The Financial Consumer Agency of Canada is an independent organization offering basic information on banking, saving, credit cards and many other aspects of personal finances that affect you every day. Their materials outline your rights and responsibilities when dealing with financial institutions, including how to make a complaint, how to protect yourself against fraud and how different forms of payment work.
 
Their hands-on tools are available free of charge in English and French and are online. Many publications can also be ordered in a printed format, also free of charge. You can reach FCAC through FCAC’s Consumer Services Centre by calling toll-free 1-866-461-3222 (TTY: 613-947-7771 or 1-866-914-6097) or by visiting their website: www.fcac-acfc.gc.ca
 
 
Remembering Veterans
 
Lest we forget …. On November 11 we pay special tribute to our Veterans, but every day of the year we should remember our gratitude for those who have defended equality, human rights and freedom on our behalf.