SENIORS’ ADVOCATE SUSAN WALSH ANNOUNCES RETIREMENT

Newfoundland and Labrador’s Seniors’ Advocate, Susan Walsh, has announced she will retire from her position on May 19, 2026, following 35 years of public service.

In an open message to seniors across the province, Walsh described serving in the role as the highlight of her career and expressed gratitude for the trust placed in her throughout her tenure.

During her time as Seniors’ Advocate, Walsh:

- Met with 1000’s of seniors in 70+ communities

- Strengthened transparency and accountability within the Office of the Seniors’ Advocate

- Introduced annual status reports tracking government responses to recommendations

- Published yearly wellbeing reports identifying service gaps

- Expanded outreach through newsletters and public community sessions

Her office also delivered key recommendations and advocacy that contributed to:

- Indexing the Seniors’ Benefit

- Increased gerontology expertise in health care

- Free driver’s medical exams for seniors

- Free access to improved influenza and shingles vaccines

- Enhancements to the Medical Transportation Assistance Program

- Creation of a dedicated Department of Seniors

Walsh says while significant progress has been made, more work remains to ensure seniors in Newfoundland and Labrador are respected, supported, and able to live with dignity.

She has committed to supporting a smooth transition to a new Seniors’ Advocate ahead of her retirement in May.