HEALTH CARE AND SENIORS
As Mayor of the Town of Sidney, with one of the most senior demographics in Canada, I read [Moses Znaimer’s] open letter to Premier Ghiz with great interest [“The Zoomer Philosophy,” July/August].
I agree completely with your analysis of Premier’s Ghiz’s thesis.
Our town is richer both economically and culturally because of the seniors in our community. They bring with them financial stability, a wealth of energy and an incredible array of skills and experiences which they share generously with the community through endless volunteering. We could not levy the sort of taxes on our community to pay for their services. Premier Ghiz does assign an economic value to this, but I as Mayor recognize the power our volunteering seniors have in economic development for the town.
Another fallacy in Premier Ghiz’s argument is the assumption that expenditures for health care are akin to shovelling money into a pit. They are not. Health care is an eco- nomic generator. Doctors, nurses, aides, pharmacists, lab technicians, administrators, cleaners, food staff, the builders of hospitals, the suppliers of equipment, the pharmaceutical manufacturers, researchers, truck drivers who deliver what the health-care system needs, the ambulance services and so on – the people do not put the money in their mattress. The money becomes part of the wealth of the community.
I am a 73-year-old senior. Since my “retirement” in 2003, I have set up a labour relations consultancy business, served on many community boards, been a University of Victoria Senator, served a three-year term as a Sidney councillor and six years as the Mayor of Sidney. I feel these activities have added value to our community.
I will continue to make a contribution until I am unable to do so. I am not a threat to the economic life of our nation, nor are other seniors. As you indicated, we are a resource that our leaders need to learn how to use for the benefit of Canada.
I have decided not to run for a third term as Mayor this fall. Your open letter has convinced me that one area I might assist in is seniors advocacy since I will be free of my political responsibilities in a few months. —Larry Cross, Mayor, Town of Sidney, B.C.