SAMSON PLEASED NEW CAREGIVER PROGRAM ANNOUNCED
Date: Tuesday August 11, 2009

(Halifax, NS) Liberal MLA for Richmond Michel P. Samson is applauding
the announcement of a new allowance to aid caregivers in Nova Scotia by
Health Minister Maureen MacDonald.

"This has been a long battle to recognize the important role of
caregivers by providing them with financial assistance,” said Samson.
“For nine years, I have fought to restore the funding that was
cancelled by the previous Conservative government.”

In 2000, Premier John Hamm and his government eliminated the former In
Home Support program, which provided caregivers a $400 monthly
allowance. The Conservative government of Rodney MacDonald promised to
restore the program, but failed to do so.

"Caregivers allow loved ones to stay home with their families. In doing
so, many leave the workforce to provide full-time care. It is important
that the government recognize this sacrifice which saves our health care
system significant money,” Samson explained.

"This is great news for caregivers in Richmond County and across the
province. This will benefit many families and help reduce the financial
burden faced by those who care for loved ones at home.”


-30-