The contributions of Newfoundland and Labrador seniors will receive recognition through a new awards program launched today by the Honourable Ross Wiseman, Minister of Health and Community Services and Minister Responsible for Aging and Seniors. Beginning this year, the Newfoundland and Labrador Seniors of Distinction Awards will be awarded annually to recognize and celebrate the contributions, achievements and diversity of seniors throughout Newfoundland and Labrador.

"In 2007, our government made a commitment to make Newfoundland and Labrador a truly age-friendly province. A major component in achieving this is recognizing and promoting the value and worth of seniors, who work each and every day to enrich our social, cultural and community lives," said Minister Wiseman. "It is in this spirit that we are proud to introduce the Seniors of Distinction Awards."

To be eligible for the awards, a senior must be nominated by an individual or group. Nominees must be 50 years of age or older and be a current or past resident of Newfoundland and Labrador. Seniors will be considered for both voluntary and paid work. Posthumous awards may be given.

"These awards provide an opportunity to recognize seniors of all walks of life � seniors who are experts in their field, seniors who share their culture and talents, seniors who volunteer as coaches, organizers or fundraisers, and seniors who care for people in need of understanding and companionship," said Minister Wiseman. "We encourage residents of our province to help us recognize seniors by nominating someone today who you believe has enriched the lives of others."

The Seniors of Distinction Awards is an initiative of the Provincial Healthy Aging Policy Framework. Launched in 2007, this policy framework outlines six priority directions together with a series of goals and actions to create an age-friendly province which supports seniors and recognizes their diversity and valuable contributions.