Pensions and Retirement Security

CPP and OAS benefit rates for 2012

dfudge — Sun, 18 Dec 2011 14:08:06 -0500

CPP benefits increase by 2.8 percent effective January 2012: Yearly Maximum Pensionable Earnings (YMPE) for 2012 set at $50,100

Pension experts call on finance ministers to expand CPP

dfudge — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 18:58:58 -0500

“The CPP offers an already existing administrative structure and framework to improve retirement benefits for working Canadians at relatively low cost.”

Pooled Registered Pension Plans not the answer to pension crisis: CCPA

dfudge — Fri, 09 Dec 2011 13:37:53 -0500

“Canada does not need yet another voluntary tax-assisted retirement savings program. It needs public pensions that provide all Canadians with a basic guarantee of adequate income.”

Only 26% of Canadian tax filers contributed to RRSPs in 2010

dfudge — Fri, 09 Dec 2011 13:19:57 -0500

RRSP system is one of Canada's most expensive social programs, costing the federal and provincial governments over $17 billion in foregone tax revenue

NUPGE stands in solidarity with UNISON in pension fight

dduffy — Wed, 30 Nov 2011 12:05:05 -0500

"Workers are being told to work longer, pay more and receive less," said James Clancy, NUPGE National President. "We stand in solidarity with each and every UNISON member in the fight for decent pensions. Enough is enough."

Harper government fails to address retirement security crisis with PRPP proposal

dduffy — Fri, 18 Nov 2011 10:07:38 -0500

Canadians don’t need another plan where they have to cough up a portion of their retirement savings to the financial industry.

Canada ranks 10th in pension sustainability

dfudge — Mon, 07 Nov 2011 12:01:23 -0500

Canada’s pension system is the tenth most stable system in the world.

Older workers delaying retirement

dfudge — Tue, 01 Nov 2011 12:17:29 -0400

A 50-year-old worker in 2008 could expect to stay in the labour force 3.5 years longer than in the mid-1990s.

NSGEU wins pension victory at Tri-County School Boards

dduffy — Wed, 26 Oct 2011 09:48:20 -0400

"This shows that when workers stand together, they can stop their employer from making unfair cuts to their pay and benefits." - Joan Jessome NSGEU President.

NDP tables act to protect pensions

dfudge — Thu, 20 Oct 2011 12:02:17 -0400

The Pension Protection Act moves pensioners to the front of the line of creditors to be paid out during bankruptcy

Arbitrator awards hybrid pension plan for new Air Canada hires

dfudge — Sun, 25 Sep 2011 15:22:56 -0400

New hires will receive part of their pension benefit from the existing DB plan under a reduced formula, and part from a DC plan.

NB Union welcomes pensions review

dfudge — Fri, 23 Sep 2011 13:44:56 -0400

“We have very serious expectations that the review is going to find that the plans are in fact sustainable."

U.K. unions call day of strike action in November over pension reform

dfudge — Wed, 21 Sep 2011 16:46:29 -0400

Up to three million public sector workers to take part in massive strike on November 30 over pension reforms

OAS and GIS benefit rates increase for October-December 2011

dfudge — Mon, 19 Sep 2011 15:36:28 -0400

As of October 1, 2011, OAS and GIS pension benefits will increase by 0.8 percent.

Bigger pensions perform better

dfudge — Fri, 16 Sep 2011 15:59:08 -0400

Difference can amount to a 13 percent bigger pension at retirement.

Canadians working longer to save for retirement

dfudge — Fri, 16 Sep 2011 11:40:25 -0400

Many Canadians living pay cheque to pay cheque and unable to save, faced with the prospect of working longer before retirement.

Pension coverage continues to drop as a percentage of labour force

dfudge — Fri, 16 Sep 2011 11:22:47 -0400

The percentage of the labour force covered by a pension plan declined, from 34% in 1999 to 33% in 2009.

NSGEU opposes regional school board imposing pension increase

lbush — Tue, 06 Sep 2011 20:59:34 -0400

School board announces that employees will see a 2.65% increase to pension contributions that will be effective Jan. 1, 2012.

CAW deal resists Air Canada's demands for pension concessions

dfudge — Tue, 21 Jun 2011 14:38:30 -0400

The new agreement maintains the defined benefit pension plan for current Air Canada workers.

Growing CPP fund could take on expanded benefit coverage

dfudge — Tue, 24 May 2011 14:40:35 -0400

The CPP Fund's assets reached a record high of $148.2 billion at the end of its fiscal 2010. That surpassed a previous high of $127.7 billion in June 2008, months before the onset of the global financial downturn.

Half of all pension plan members are now women

dfudge — Tue, 17 May 2011 11:09:13 -0400

Participation of women in pension plans continues the trend upward which began in 1998.

Labour Board celebrates EMS Week by stripping pension from Alberta paramedics

dduffy — Tue, 10 May 2011 11:58:25 -0400

“With this decision, the Alberta labour board has relegated these important emergency health-care professionals to secondary status." - Health Sciences Association of Alberta (HSAA/NUPGE).

Supreme Court grants PSAC leave to appeal pension surplus case

dfudge — Thu, 05 May 2011 15:53:01 -0400

The evidence clearly demonstrated that the government was required to and did put aside real funds to deal with its pension obligations, along with funds collected from plan members' contributions.

A name change for HOOPP

dfudge — Thu, 28 Apr 2011 16:45:56 -0400

The full name is now the Healthcare of Ontario Pension Plan

One-third of retired Canadians still in debt

dfudge — Wed, 27 Apr 2011 11:10:12 -0400

Among retired people with debt, 17 percent owed $100,000 or more.

Federal parties promise improved pension coverage and retirement security

dfudge — Tue, 26 Apr 2011 14:23:35 -0400

Main split on pensions comes down to continuing to rely on a failed private sector model, or improving and expanding our public pension system.

Retirement is not a choice for many Canadians

dfudge — Tue, 26 Apr 2011 11:14:14 -0400

In the past 12 months, there has been a significant rise in the number of retirees returning to the workforce because they need the income

Union wins landmark court ruling on pensions

dduffy — Tue, 12 Apr 2011 21:37:17 -0400

Ruling sets a precedent for providing greater benefits to pension plan members in cases of corporate insolvency

Ontario budget misses the mark in addressing retirement security

dfudge — Fri, 01 Apr 2011 11:59:10 -0400

Review of pension plans in the broader public sector misses the mark completely for the tens of thousands of workers who have no pension coverage at all.

Failed federal budget offered little more than crumbs to seniors

dfudge — Mon, 28 Mar 2011 11:38:20 -0400

Small GIS increase to go only to those seniors with less than $2,000 income a year.

Quebec budget designed to keep seniors working past age 65

dfudge — Fri, 18 Mar 2011 15:47:56 -0400

QPP contributions will increase while workers who retire before age 65 will have their QPP benefits further reduced

PRPPs fail to match the clear benefits of CPP: CLC analysis

dfudge — Thu, 17 Mar 2011 12:07:12 -0400

"As a mechanism for addressing the deficiencies in Canada’s retirement income system, PRPPs are greatly inferior to an expanded CPP."

Value of pension funds rose by 6.8% in last quarter

dfudge — Tue, 15 Mar 2011 09:59:44 -0400

Level exceeds the previous high reached in the second quarter of 2008.

Less than four in 10 Canadians made an RRSP contribution in 2010

dfudge — Mon, 14 Mar 2011 11:23:35 -0400

Two thirds cite lack of funds as reason for not making RRSP contribution.

OAS/GIS benefit Rates effective April 1, 2011

dfudge — Mon, 14 Mar 2011 11:05:03 -0400

Payments under OAS and GIS will rise 0.5 percent.

Low income earners to work past age 65 to pay basic living expenses

dfudge — Fri, 11 Mar 2011 16:30:40 -0500

Canadians believe they'll work longer than the traditional retirement age of 65, they're less confident about their retirement outlook, and they're concerned about their financial well-being.

Four in ten Canadians withdraw from RRSPs before retirement

dfudge — Wed, 02 Mar 2011 16:52:16 -0500

Canadians 35-54 years of age are the most likely to have withdrawn money from their RRSP

Pensions and long-term care dominate National Union Action on Retirees' Concerns Committee meeting

dduffy — Wed, 09 Feb 2011 09:07:14 -0500

"We brought together an excellent group of union activists for this committee. We are lucky to have them," James Clancy, NUPGE national president

NSGEU president Joan Jessome defends public service pensions

dblaikie — Thu, 03 Feb 2011 17:35:00 -0500

On January 19, 2011, NSGEU president Joan Jessome sent the following letter to the editor of the Chronicle Herald in response to an article by Dan Leger. It has yet to be printed.

One in four retires stop working for health/disability reasons

dfudge — Thu, 03 Feb 2011 13:44:35 -0500

Forty percent of working Canadians age 55 or older view their financial plans for retirement as less than adequate.

PSAC seeks leave to appeal pension case to the Supreme Court

dfudge — Tue, 25 Jan 2011 11:24:26 -0500

At issue is the fact that the federal government raided a $28 billion surplus from pension plans of federal public service employees

Voluntary PRPP will not increase pension coverage

dfudge — Mon, 17 Jan 2011 10:22:53 -0500

“The notion that small businesses will join a PRPP because it’s simpler than existing employee-sponsored options is a bit of pipedream.”

OPSEU calls for creation of Ontario Pension Agency

dblaikie — Mon, 10 Jan 2011 17:45:00 -0500

'Could save taxpayers the cost of high management fees associated with the private sector insurance business and make pension coverage more effective and affordable.'

Alberta opposed to CPP changes because of ideology

dfudge — Mon, 10 Jan 2011 09:56:25 -0500

“Alberta simply don’t believe that there should be a public response to what they consider to be a private issue. It’s not a view that the government of Nova Scotia shares.

Pension coverage drops as percentage of labour force

dfudge — Fri, 07 Jan 2011 14:54:19 -0500

The percentage of paid workers covered by a pension plan declined, from 41% in 1998 to 38% in 2008.

Survey says most Canadians don't plan to retire

dblaikie — Wed, 05 Jan 2011 17:30:00 -0500

38% will work out of financial necessity while 5% are waiting to win a lottery.

Canada's finance ministers put off pension reform

dblaikie — Tue, 21 Dec 2010 07:51:34 -0500

CPP changes derailed as federal finance minister puts forward a limited voluntary private-sector pension option designed for small businesses and the self-employed.

Harper gov't betrays Canadians on pension reform

lbush — Fri, 17 Dec 2010 12:07:50 -0500

Finance Minister Jim “Flip Flop” Flaherty backtracks on commitment to enhance Canada Pension Plan; now pushing for a private sector voluntary plan.

PEIUPSE welcomes gov't stand on pension reform

dblaikie — Mon, 13 Dec 2010 17:30:00 -0500

'I'm pleased Minister Sheridan believes that its time to increase benefits under the CPP.' - Shelley Ward.

Public better than private on pensions

dfudge — Wed, 01 Dec 2010 09:48:07 -0500

Expanding the CPP would ultimately save governments money, by making future retirees less financially dependent.

Most MP’s reject voluntary supplemental pension plan

dfudge — Thu, 25 Nov 2010 15:54:53 -0500

Special House of Commons debate shows broad-based support for expanded CPP

NUPGE produces pamphlet on top ten reasons to expand CPP

dfudge — Wed, 24 Nov 2010 10:35:05 -0500

Help build the momentum for an expanded CPP by contacting your Member of Parliament.

Support Ontario drive for CPP reform, OPSEU urges

dblaikie — Tue, 23 Nov 2010 17:45:00 -0500

'Time is running short to convince the federal government that it must move to reform the CPP.'

Alberta unions urge provincial government to stop standing in the way of CPP expansion

dfudge — Tue, 23 Nov 2010 15:34:37 -0500

"Alberta is acting as a spoiler and standing in the way of real reform"

Survey provides insight into older workers' thinking about work and retirement

dfudge — Mon, 15 Nov 2010 14:53:51 -0500

The clear majority of older workers planning to retire at the age of 65 from both their job and the labour force.

CPP Fund gains $8.9 billion in latest quarter

dfudge — Wed, 10 Nov 2010 12:21:01 -0500

CPP Fund valued at $136.8 billion as of September 30, 2010

New report finds more than half of Canadians working into their golden years

dfudge — Tue, 09 Nov 2010 12:25:17 -0500

Three quarters of Canadians are financially unprepared for retirement

Ontario government introduces second phase of pension reform

dfudge — Fri, 05 Nov 2010 12:50:05 -0400

Bill 120, Securing Pension Benefits Now and for the Future Act, 2010 was passed at second reading in the Ontario legislature

Expanded CPP not part of federal Liberals pension proposals

dfudge — Thu, 04 Nov 2010 14:54:49 -0400

Liberals to call for a voluntary supplemental pension plan

President's Commentary: The top ten reasons to expand the Canada Pension Plan

dfudge — Sun, 31 Oct 2010 13:00:00 -0400

CPP is the envy of the world: it’s secure, funded on a sound basis and well managed by professional staff independent of government.

Federal unions dealt another blow over pension surplus case

dfudge — Mon, 18 Oct 2010 10:14:52 -0400

Ontario Court of Appeal upheld that the government had the legal authority to take the surplus when it passed Bill C-78 in 2000.

Supreme Court rules employers need not transfer pension surplus to successor plans

dfudge — Wed, 13 Oct 2010 16:44:42 -0400

Decision fails to set an absolute precedent as the court rules future legal actions of this kind should be treated on a case-by-case basis.

Declining support for corporate management by Canadian mutual funds

dfudge — Tue, 28 Sep 2010 10:47:00 -0400

Increasing percentage of mutual fund voting power is being exercised to vote against management

National Forum to accelerate workplace pension reform

dfudge — Tue, 28 Sep 2010 10:09:47 -0400

"It is time to fix the problems of workplace pension plans for Canadians."

NSGEU brief calls for major national pension reforms

dblaikie — Mon, 20 Sep 2010 18:45:00 -0400

Brief calls for higher CPP and GIS benefits and a national pension insurance program.

Alberta Tories standing in the way of CPP reforms

dblaikie — Thu, 16 Sep 2010 18:44:00 -0400

Quebec also 'lukewarm' to national pension reforms under consideration by Canada's finance ministers.

NBUPPE issues statement clarifying pension status

dblaikie — Mon, 13 Sep 2010 18:31:00 -0400

'No decisions have been taken yet to reduce any benefit or increase contributions.'

N.B. case has big implications for Canadian retirees

dblaikie — Sun, 12 Sep 2010 09:00:00 -0400

Toronto pension lawyer says precedent set by court could affect retirees depending on other financially stressed pension funds across Canada.

New Brunswick government stalling pension reforms

dblaikie — Thu, 09 Sep 2010 18:50:00 -0400

Judge hearing case filed by employees' pension committee castigates province for delaying action on pension plan shortfall.

Value of pension plans in Canada increase by 2.5% in 1stQ of 2010

dfudge — Thu, 09 Sep 2010 10:38:58 -0400

This marks four consecutive quarters of growth in pension fund assets

N.B. legal fight for control of public pension plan

dblaikie — Wed, 08 Sep 2010 18:33:00 -0400

'Hanging in the balance of the decision is whether the committee or the government has the authority to devise the plan to insure security and long term solvency.'

Millions protest in France over higher pension age

dblaikie — Tue, 07 Sep 2010 18:46:00 -0400

Legislation introduced by President Nicolas Sarkozy to raise the eligible age for minimum pensions to 62 from 60 and for full pensions to 67 from 65.

Ontario Teachers’ Pension should divest from private water, says Council of Canadians

dfudge — Thu, 02 Sep 2010 10:08:10 -0400

“Ontario teachers support the fight for public water services in the province and teach their students about the urgent need to support the right to water around the world.”

New Ontario pension proposals don't go far enough

dblaikie — Wed, 25 Aug 2010 18:40:00 -0400

Maximum coverage of $1,000 a month when company pensions fail falls far short of recommended $2,500 level of support.

BC public sector pension funds call for tough Canadian rules on offshore drilling

dfudge — Wed, 18 Aug 2010 11:08:35 -0400

"The BP oil crisis has highlighted the significant financial risks presented by deepwater drilling and, as a fiduciary, we must be concerned about the possibility of future accidents and try to find ways to mitigate these risks."

CPP Fund ends fiscal first quarter at $129.7 billion

dfudge — Wed, 18 Aug 2010 09:24:37 -0400

For the five-year period ended June 30, 2010, the CPP Fund has generated an annualized investment rate of return of 3 percent; for the 10-year period the Fund has generated an annualized rate of return of 5.1 percent.

Ontario Health Association demutualization update

dblaikie — Tue, 17 Aug 2010 18:29:00 -0400

Agreement to distribute $22.5 million in proceeds arising from the demutualization of certain insurance policies.

Ontario government gives universities temporary pension relief

dfudge — Tue, 17 Aug 2010 16:41:52 -0400

If a university with the agreement of unions representing the employees, can reform its pension plan, the government will allow it to amortize its solvency deficits over a period of up to 10 years.

Winnipeg rally for public pensions planned Aug. 5

dblaikie — Mon, 02 Aug 2010 09:01:00 -0400

'Everyone concerned about the effectiveness of the Canada Pension Plan (CPP), Old Age Security (OAS) and Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) programs is urged to participate.'

Home equity accounts for up to 20 percent of income of retirees

dfudge — Mon, 26 Jul 2010 11:39:15 -0400

Households in the age group 70 and over whose income was ranked in the bottom 20 percent, home ownership raised incomes, on average, by 20 percent.

CPP survived global crash better than most plans

dblaikie — Thu, 15 Jul 2010 18:50:00 -0400

Canada's publicly-run pension system did far better than private pension plans.

OMERS Sponsors Corporation addresses deficit

dblaikie — Thu, 08 Jul 2010 18:31:00 -0400

No impact will occur on pension formula, inflation protection in retirement, survivor benefits or disability benefits.

NSGEU blasts Tory candidate over pension remarks

dblaikie — Thu, 08 Jul 2010 18:30:00 -0400

Leading leadership candidate misinforms Nova Scotians about pension plan contributions by public employees. - Updated

Greenpeace criticizes CPP investment in tar sands

dblaikie — Wed, 07 Jul 2010 18:30:00 -0400

'CPP's investment in the tar sands involves pensioners in a toxic legacy when they should be able to rely on an ethical, sustainable retirement plan.'

Majority of small business owners disagree with CFIB Catherine Swift on pension reform

dfudge — Fri, 25 Jun 2010 14:34:40 -0400

Polling data contradict CFIB claims that small businesses oppose Canada Pension Plan reform

NUPGE says pension reform needs to go farther

dblaikie — Mon, 14 Jun 2010 19:00:00 -0400

The National Union and its Components call for expansion of public pensions at P.E.I. meetings.

Third consecutive quarter of growth for pension funds

dfudge — Fri, 11 Jun 2010 11:40:07 -0400

Canadian pension funds increase in value by 2.5 percent in fourth quarter of 2009

NUPGE to hold pension meeting at same time as finance ministers' June 13-14 meeting in P.E.I.

dblaikie — Wed, 02 Jun 2010 18:45:00 -0400

"We have no interest in a system that provides reasonable retirement security for some but doesn't for the majority of Canadians."

OPTrust signs Principles for Responsible Investment

dblaikie — Tue, 01 Jun 2010 18:45:00 -0400

Decision follows adoption of 2009 OPTrust statement on responsible investing.

Canada inches toward a national securities regulator

dblaikie — Thu, 27 May 2010 18:35:00 -0400

Draft law introduced in Parliament but no action will be taken until its constitutionality is tested in the Supreme Court.

Pension security legislation moves closer to becoming law

dfudge — Thu, 27 May 2010 15:10:18 -0400

Bill C-501 would grant pension plans secured status during corporate restructuring and bankruptcy proceedings.

Don't turn retirement homes into nursing homes

dblaikie — Tue, 25 May 2010 18:30:00 -0400

OPSEU delivers important message to Ontario legislature members on Bill 21.

Pension plan coverage in Canada remains at 38 percent

dfudge — Tue, 25 May 2010 10:11:12 -0400

The rate of participation in pension plans increased slightly for women, while men registered a small decline.

Greece announces major pension cuts

dfudge — Tue, 25 May 2010 10:00:46 -0400

“These huge cuts target low-income Greeks and those most vulnerable such as women”

CEOs of major pension plans call for federal-provincial task force

dfudge — Fri, 21 May 2010 11:11:17 -0400

“Workers need access to low-cost, well-managed additional pension arrangements to achieve their retirement goals.”

CPP fund rebounds to previous highest level prior to financial crisis

dfudge — Fri, 21 May 2010 10:09:32 -0400

CPP Fund Totals $127.6 Billion at 2010 Fiscal Year-End

Legislative changes for federal pensions winding through Parliament

dfudge — Thu, 13 May 2010 12:37:41 -0400

Major changes include immediate vesting of pension benefits and allowing pension surplus to increase to 25 percent.

Financial literacy task force misses point - NUPGE

dblaikie — Tue, 11 May 2010 18:30:00 -0400

'Canadians need real measures, such as pension reform, to improve their economic well-being' - James Clancy.

Major changes announced for NS public service pension plan

dfudge — Tue, 27 Apr 2010 13:30:06 -0400

Changes permit joint trusteeship of the plan in the future

Expanding CPP most effective means of pension reform: report

dfudge — Tue, 20 Apr 2010 09:17:07 -0400

“Expanding the CPP would address the issue of coverage, security of benefits, and low cost of administration – all the key objectives of pension reform.”

NUPGE presents pension proposals to federal gov't

dblaikie — Sun, 18 Apr 2010 11:01:00 -0400

'A secure, enjoyable retirement should be the right earned by workers for decades of contributions to one’s community and Canada’s economy.' - James Clancy.

Pension funding preserved for social services workers

dblaikie — Tue, 30 Mar 2010 18:29:00 -0400

The BCGEU has been working hard with a number of partners to bring pressure to bear on the government on this critical issue facing members.

New Democrats introduce pension security bill

dfudge — Tue, 30 Mar 2010 09:27:26 -0400

C-501 would secure underfunded pension plans throughout bankruptcy proceedings

Deal between Nortel and its pensioners rejected by Court

dfudge — Mon, 29 Mar 2010 09:45:28 -0400

Court rejects $57-million deal to pay benefits to former and disabled employees until the end of 2010 in exchange for an agreement not to sue Nortel

Federal pension consultations too restricted: CLC

dfudge — Sat, 27 Mar 2010 17:07:16 -0400

CLC leader says Finance Minister will face backlash

Manitoba overhauls Pension Benefits Act

dfudge — Sat, 27 Mar 2010 10:28:43 -0400

Amendments provide immediate vesting of pension benefits and organizations with more than 50 employees will be required to have workers on their pension-management committee.

Federal budget ignores growing retirement security crisis

dfudge — Thu, 18 Mar 2010 12:35:58 -0400

The budget contained no new initiatives around pensions reform and retirement security. Federal government ignores calls for National Pensions Summit, commits to only undertake consultations.

Value of workplace pension plans increase in 3rd quarter 2009

dfudge — Thu, 18 Mar 2010 10:55:30 -0400

This marks second consecutive quarter of growth, however, the value of pension funds still 7.5 percent below the high reached in the second quarter of 2008.

Canadians anxious about future of our pension system

dfudge — Tue, 02 Mar 2010 14:13:58 -0500

“A great demographic divide exists between younger Canadians and those who are nearing retirement or already there. Younger Canadians clearly lack confidence in the viability of public and private pensions in the future, while older Canadians are much more confident.” - Nik Nanos of Nanos Research

Retirement security the goal for everyone - OPSEU

dblaikie — Thu, 25 Feb 2010 17:30:00 -0500

Public sector pensions are paid for by the deferred wages of public employees throughout their careers and private sector workers deserve the same opportunity to protect themselves in retirement.

NUPGE launches radio ad campaign calling for national summit on pensions

kcarruthers — Mon, 15 Feb 2010 11:33:20 -0500

Most Canadians are worried about their retirement security. NUPGE is pressing the federal government to hold a national summit with a series of radio ads launched this week in the nation's capital.

Nortel agrees to $57M deal to fund pension, health and disability benefits to end of 2010

dfudge — Tue, 09 Feb 2010 11:48:56 -0500

Deal comes at the price of an acknowledgment that the claims of Nortel pensioners, former employees and employees on Long-term Disability are unsecured, and rank in equal priority to those of all other unsecured creditors, including the bondholders.

Traditional retirement dreams vanishing in Canada

dblaikie — Mon, 08 Feb 2010 17:28:00 -0500

Almost one third of Canadians aged 35-54 expect to be working in their retirement years.

Canadian pensions rebound sharply in 2009

dfudge — Fri, 22 Jan 2010 10:58:21 -0500

Pension funds claw back from losses caused by the economic crisis.

Federal PS unions prepare against expected attack on pension plans

dfudge — Wed, 20 Jan 2010 12:48:45 -0500

"When you attack people's retirement savings, you are asking for the fight of your life and I think it would be a most unwise thing for any political party to do.”

RRSP contributions expected to continue declining through 2020

dfudge — Tue, 19 Jan 2010 11:50:34 -0500

Retiring boomers leading downward trend

Younger workers face reduced retirement standards

dblaikie — Thu, 14 Jan 2010 17:32:00 -0500

Rosy outlook portrayed by Calgary professor does not stand up to research by pension expert Bob Baldwin.

Fraser Papers using bankruptcy protection to divest itself of pension obligations

dfudge — Wed, 13 Jan 2010 15:15:34 -0500

About 1,000 pensioners from paper mills in all three provinces stand to lose up to 40% of their modest pensions when Fraser Papers goes into bankruptcy.

Pension crisis can’t wait for Harper’s vacation

dfudge — Wed, 13 Jan 2010 10:37:57 -0500

Abitibi, Nortel and CanWest workers need action now: says NDP

Governments turning their backs on pension crisis

dblaikie — Thu, 07 Jan 2010 17:03:02 -0500

Canada's finance ministers are doing Canadians a grave disservice by pretending that no real crisis exists within our failing pension system.

President's Commentary: National Pensions Summit needed to explore all retirement security options

dblaikie — Thu, 17 Dec 2009 17:44:00 -0500

(16 Dec. 2009) - 'We need a National Pensions Summit that provides Canadians from all walks of life with an open forum to fairly explore and assess the viability of all options designed to improve retirement security for all Canadians.' - James Clancy.

Pension plans increase 4.5 percent in value in second quarter of 2009

dfudge — Tue, 15 Dec 2009 10:24:59 -0500

Pension fund revenues exceeded expenditures by $10.6 billion, representing first positive cash flow since the second quarter of 2008.

CPP benefits increase slightly for 2010; OAS and GIS benefits remain unchanged

dfudge — Fri, 11 Dec 2009 13:23:51 -0500

CPP benefits increase by 0.4 percent: 2010 Yearly Maximum Pensionable Earnings (YMPE) set at $47,200

Ontario tables phase one of pension reform

dfudge — Fri, 11 Dec 2009 12:44:24 -0500

Proposed legislation deals with less controversial issues before more difficult matters to be dealt in further legislative changes planned for 2010.

Liberals call for national supplementary pension plan

dfudge — Fri, 11 Dec 2009 11:06:06 -0500

Liberals would also provide workers the opportunity to have CPP take over the investment of their pension plan in the event their employer goes bankrupt.

B.C. invites all provinces to join supplementary pension plan

dfudge — Fri, 11 Dec 2009 10:45:26 -0500

B.C. and Alberta governments prefer Ottawa take the lead in pension reform but are prepared to go their own way should the federal effort fall short.

Oil Sands: more questions than answers for investors

dfudge — Tue, 01 Dec 2009 10:20:32 -0500

"It begins with disclosure. Investors have a right to clear and comprehensive disclosure on material environmental, social and governance issues. We will be working with Northwest & Ethical to promote change using the tools of shareholder engagement." Larry Brown

Nortel management get massive bonuses while workers fight for their pensions

dfudge — Mon, 30 Nov 2009 10:49:05 -0500

Another example of corporate greed – 72 Nortel executives will receive a total of $7.5 million US on top of their current salaries in 2009

Old Age Security system needs strengthening: report

dfudge — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 16:09:49 -0500

Ottawa (25 November 2009)—Canada’s Old Age Security system needs improvement in order to help ensure the economic security and dignity of Canadians in retirement, says a new report released today by the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives (CCPA).

Canada Can Lead the World with Smart Pension Reform

dfudge — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 11:12:50 -0500

“A supplementary pension plan is needed to give middle-income Canadians without workplace pensions a better crack at securing a comfortable retirement”: Keith Ambachtsheer

CPP Fund up $7.2 billion to $123.8 billion

dfudge — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 11:03:00 -0500

$5.4 billion of the increase comes from investment income, reflecting a 4.6 per cent rate of return over the past six months

$1.8 trillion in pension assets in Canada at the end of 2008

dfudge — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 11:25:21 -0500

Of total pension assets at the end of 2008, social security comprised 7.6 percent, workplace plans 58 percent and individual registered savings plans 34.4 percent.

Canadians speak on 'The Next Economy' for Canada

dblaikie — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 18:46:00 -0500

NUPGE publishes the first of three reports on ideas that emerged from a series of 26 town hall meetings across the country to assess the way forward from the global economic collapse.

NSGEU endorses call for national pension reform

dblaikie — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 17:30:00 -0500

'It’s time to consider expansion of our public universal workplace pension plan, the CPP.' - Joan Jessome.

Pension gap between females and males in Canada narrows

dfudge — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 11:04:16 -0500

"Presently, the gap in CPP pensions between males and females is narrowing even if it is not expected to disappear completely."

Private sector pensions in Nova Scotia given more time to recover losses

dfudge — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 11:02:15 -0500

Permission must be first given by plan members to extend the recovery time

NUPGE expresses disappointment in federal pension changes

dfudge — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 14:15:22 -0400

“All these changes are positive. But not one of them addresses the current and most significant problems we’re facing – the lack of pension protection and retirement security for Canadians” Larry Brown, NUPGE National Secretary-Treasurer

Pension Funds Recovering in 2009, says OECD

dfudge — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 11:24:09 -0400

The average funding level for OECD defined benefit pension plans went up from a 24% deficit at the end of 2008 to an estimated 18% deficit by June this year.

Quebec government offers protection for Nortel pensioners in the province

dfudge — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 10:14:07 -0400

The limited protection is the same as what Quebec government offered all pension plans in the province in January 2009.

Nova Scotia government introduces phased-in retirement legislation

dfudge — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 11:50:10 -0400

Legislation will allow an employee who meets pension plan retirement criteria to continue working, and accrue additional benefits, while receiving pension benefits.

Solvency of federally regulated pension plans improves

dfudge — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 11:48:13 -0400

Average estimated solvency ratio of federally regulated DB pension plans at June 30, 2009 was 88 percent

Canada ranked fourth out of 11 countries for pension system

dfudge — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 11:59:10 -0400

The Netherlands (80.5) and Canada (76.2) scored highest in this index due to the level of minimum public pension and a relatively high net replacement rate of income for median income earners.

Canadian women worry about their retirement security

dfudge — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 10:28:19 -0400

Only 30 percent of women have a formal financial plan to meet their retirement goals

CCPA says pension system needs urgent attention

dblaikie — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 20:30:30 -0400

'Only 38% of paid workers have workplace pensions.'- Monica Townson.

National survey on late career/post-retirement paid employment in the non-profit sector

mluff — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 18:27:00 -0400

The Human Resources Council for the Voluntary & Non-profit Sector is conducting a confidential survey which may be of interest to individuals aged 45+ planning to retire or make other work changes, or who are already retired.

Air Canada pilots seek review of Human Rights Tribunal decision on retirement age

dfudge — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 10:14:03 -0400

"The contractual retirement age and associated post-employment benefits are cornerstones of our collective agreement, which has supported Air Canada pilots' careers for decades."

No increase in quarterly benefit rates of OAS and GIS

dfudge — Wed, 23 Sep 2009 15:32:01 -0400

Old Age Security pension, paid to people 65 years of age and over, will remain unchanged at $516.96 per month

NUPGE sounds the alarm on Harper CPP changes

dblaikie — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 18:45:00 -0400

The dream of 'freedom 55' will recede to a new reality of 'freedom 70' for many Canadians if the Conservatives get their way, says NUPGE president James Clancy.

NUPGE encouraged by CPPIB call for improved CPP

dblaikie — Sun, 20 Sep 2009 13:02:00 -0400

'We support your position that the best fix to the current situation lies in expanding the Canada Pension Plan (CPP) and agree with your hesitations about the effectiveness of proposals for new provincial or inter-provincial pension plans.' - Larry Brown.

Simcoe paramedics circulating pension petition

dblaikie — Thu, 17 Sep 2009 18:30:00 -0400

Ontario is asked to change legislation to permit the transfer of pension assets to the Ontario Municipal Employees Retirement System (OMERS).

Saskatchewan joins B.C. and Alberta on plan to establish regional pension plan

dfudge — Wed, 16 Sep 2009 11:46:26 -0400

Labour movement is critical of the proposal because the supplemental plan wouldn't be mandatory and doesn't require employers to match employee contributions.

Former Nortel workers call on Parliament to protect pension and benefit plans

dfudge — Tue, 15 Sep 2009 09:54:22 -0400

Retirees point out that they are forced to stand in line along with bondholders in order to retrieve the retirement savings and future disability payments Nortel promised before it went bankrupt.

Workplace pensions funds decline by 2.4% in first quarter 2009

dfudge — Mon, 14 Sep 2009 12:15:58 -0400

This was the third consecutive quarter that pension funds experienced a decrease in value.

Few workers have a good understanding of their pension plan

dfudge — Fri, 11 Sep 2009 10:07:06 -0400

Three quarters of workers in the U.S. say they have less than a complete understanding of their retirement plan

“Shadow banking” system must be regulated, says report

dfudge — Sat, 29 Aug 2009 18:39:47 -0400

Canada's banking regulator should license and approve all financial instruments available to investors in the country, even if they originate in the U.S., CCPA report recommends

CPP Fund increases $11.1 Billion in the last quarter

dfudge — Mon, 24 Aug 2009 15:02:51 -0400

Increase comes primarily from a 7.1 percent return on investment income during first quarter of fiscal 2010

Summer fiction: Conservatives working on pensions

dblaikie — Sun, 23 Aug 2009 11:32:00 -0400

Larry Brown, NUPGE's national secretary-treasurer, says the Harper government is misleading Canadians on pensions issues. Instead of responding effectively to the crisis, the government is stalling and even moving backward, he argues.

Non-permanent employees finally getting cheques

dblaikie — Thu, 20 Aug 2009 18:31:00 -0400

Average settlements of $16,000 now being made by Saskatchewan government.

IBM faces pensions backlash, warns Unite U.K.

dfudge — Wed, 19 Aug 2009 11:00:05 -0400

“Hundreds of workers are joining the union determined to stand up to this unacceptable attack on their pensions.”

Pension ruling a big blow from Canada's top court

dblaikie — Sun, 09 Aug 2009 13:15:32 -0400

Sets precedent likely to undermine pension plans across the country.

Manitoba to give workers and unions a limited say in pensions

dfudge — Thu, 06 Aug 2009 14:02:32 -0400

Pension plans must permit the union to appoint a person in accordance with the union’s constitution instead of providing for a person to be elected by the active members.

Ontario government establishes Advisory Council on Pensions and Retirement Income

dfudge — Thu, 06 Aug 2009 13:22:38 -0400

Mandate to provide ongoing advice to the government pension reform proposals and keep the government informed on stakeholder viewpoints.

Poverty risk six times greater for seniors lacking pensions

dfudge — Thu, 06 Aug 2009 12:12:10 -0400

“This ‘pension factor’ is particularly powerful for improving the economic security of vulnerable older households - women and members of racial/ethic minority groups,”

Britain’s TUC explodes public sector pension myths

dfudge — Wed, 05 Aug 2009 13:46:20 -0400

Fat-cat pensions in the public sector are a myth, says the TUC.

Federal PS pension plan declines by 22.7 percent while plan’s top executives paid $3.8 million in bonuses

dfudge — Fri, 24 Jul 2009 10:42:13 -0400

Losses renew PSAC’s call for joint trusteeship of their members’ pension plan and an end to rewarding of bonuses to investment fund managers

Investors increase commitment to SRI principles during economic crisis

dfudge — Wed, 22 Jul 2009 10:11:49 -0400

Report by the UN Principles for Responsible Investment finds that asset owners and investment managers have increased their commitment to Responsible Investing in the wake of the economic crisis.

CPP projecting more benefits for a longer period

dfudge — Thu, 16 Jul 2009 18:31:30 -0400

Study shows life expectancy at age 65 has increased from 14 to 18 years for males and from 18 to 21 years for females.

IAMAW last of Air Canada’s five unions to reach deal on pensions and wages

dfudge — Thu, 16 Jul 2009 10:24:37 -0400

Deal provides moratorium on funding the airline’s $3 billion pension shortfall for 21 months and averts Air Canada from seeking bankruptcy protection.

OECD and TUAC agree: pension security must be central to global recovery

mluff — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 15:01:14 -0400

"It was reassuring to hear the OECD state so frankly that an effective pension system is not only socially necessary, but also one of the required responses to the economic crisis," says Larry Brown, NUPGE Secretary-Treasurer

CPP Reforms – Punishing workers who retire early

dblaikie — Mon, 22 Jun 2009 20:00:00 -0400

'No wonder the most enthusiastic endorsements have come from employer oriented think tanks.'

Union leaders urge western premiers to reject Alberta / B.C. pension proposal

dfudge — Mon, 22 Jun 2009 10:02:27 -0400

Instead of getting behind ill-conceived Alberta /British Columbia (ABC) plan, western premiers should use their clout to call for a national pension summit

MPs demand clawback of CPP executive bonuses

dblaikie — Thu, 18 Jun 2009 18:30:00 -0400

'They lost $24 billion and they wiped out the last four years of contributions in that loss.'

A convenient untruth about public pension plans

dblaikie — Mon, 15 Jun 2009 18:45:00 -0400

Public sector workers pay 8% to 9% of their income to finance public pension plans, far more than the 3% to 5% contribution rate for other workers with pensions. - NUPGE's Larry Brown.

Saskatchewan pensions plan sponsors given funding relief without consent of plan members

dfudge — Sat, 13 Jun 2009 20:00:00 -0400

Unlike funding relief measures adopted by other jurisdictions, workers have no say but assume the risks to their pension plans if the current market downturn continues for an extended period

Air Canada reaches tentative agreement with its five unions protecting pensions

dfudge — Sat, 13 Jun 2009 20:00:00 -0400

The defined benefit pension plan remains intact with benefits protected and no other concessions were made.

Finally, governments discover the pension crisis

dblaikie — Sun, 07 Jun 2009 13:00:10 -0400

'Governments should underwrite the pension plans of Canadian workers because to do anything else would be unfair and economically disastrous.' - Larry Brown, NUPGE.

Pension plan membership in Canada increases in 2008 from previous year

dfudge — Fri, 05 Jun 2009 20:00:00 -0400

5.9 million Canadian workers belong to workplace pension plans representing only 32 percent of the workforce

Federal government appoints mediator to help solve Air Canada’s pension problems

dfudge — Wed, 03 Jun 2009 20:00:00 -0400

Former Ontario Superior Court Judge James Farley, who oversaw Air Canada's 2003 bankruptcy, will seek a solution on the company's pension and other issues

Million dollar bonuses for CPP executives are 'outrageous', says NUPGE president James Clancy

lbush — Tue, 02 Jun 2009 18:28:01 -0400

“This is really outrageous and it understandably offends people,” said Clancy. “How can they possibly justify these bonuses when the fund lost over $23 billion dollars last year? That defies common sense.”

Canada Pension Plan lost $17.2 billion in fiscal 2009

dblaikie — Sun, 24 May 2009 17:59:00 -0400

CPP Investment Board says long-term outlook remains stable despite setbacks caused by turmoil in international economic markets.

New NUPGE pamphlet highlights real pension crisis

dblaikie — Thu, 14 May 2009 18:31:00 -0400

'The private sector has failed miserably.... The only way to ensure that all Canadians are able to retire with security and dignity is by expanding Canada's public pension system.' - James Clancy.

Quebec judge allows AbitibiBowater to suspend payments to pension plan

dfudge — Fri, 08 May 2009 10:02:11 -0400

AbitibiBowater granted permission under the Companies’ Creditors Agreement Act (CCAA) to suspend payments on its unfunded pension liabilities.

Air Canada seeking approval from its unions for pension funding relief

dfudge — Wed, 06 May 2009 10:40:08 -0400

Air Canada appears to be headed for a showdown with its unions over the airline’s underfunded pension plans.

Court grants CEP members pension rights negotiated with AbitbiBowater

dfudge — Mon, 04 May 2009 13:47:25 -0400

CEP asked the court to force the company to respect an agreement that allows employees with 20 years of service to retire at age 57, instead of 58

Forgo large bonuses MPs urge CPP managers

dfudge — Mon, 04 May 2009 13:44:38 -0400

Criticism of CPP investment Board as it plans to provide managers with pay bonuses after pension plan lost $13.8-billion in last year

Ontario government wants university pension assets consolidated

dfudge — Mon, 04 May 2009 13:42:12 -0400

Fifteen universities have some form of defined benefit plan with combined assets of over $13 billion

Pension changes would increase risk for workers

dfudge — Thu, 30 Apr 2009 12:02:07 -0400

Employers using crisis to push for looser regulation of how pension workers' money is managed.

Ontario government must protect pensions says coalition

dfudge — Tue, 21 Apr 2009 10:33:52 -0400

"The financial crisis is not the fault of retirees, and they shouldn't have to shoulder a disproportionate amount of the burden because the province's pension guarantee fund is underfunded"

CPP should stop supporting tobacco companies

dfudge — Tue, 14 Apr 2009 12:21:04 -0400

Physicians for a Smoke-Free Canada says Canada should follow Norway's lead to exclude tobacco holdings from public funds.

Pension plan needs long-term strategy, not quick fix

dblaikie — Sun, 05 Apr 2009 12:59:00 -0400

NSGEU critical of province for not working with union to develop best way to plan for the future.

Federal government implements pension solvency relief measures

dfudge — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 10:17:28 -0400

First proposed in its ill-fated November 2008 Economic and Fiscal Statement, the federal government implements temporary solvency relief for federally regulated pension plans facing large funding shortfalls.

Ontario budget provides pension funding relief

dfudge — Mon, 30 Mar 2009 16:32:22 -0400

Government introduces temporary measures but withstands pressure for short term fixes to deal with the financial crisis, according to OPSEU.

President’s Commentary: Pension debate must focus on expanding Canada's public pensions system

dblaikie — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 09:17:26 -0400

(20 March 2009) - The second of two commentaries by James Clancy, national president of the National Union of Public and General Employees (NUPGE), on the challenges facing pension plans in Canada. Read first commentary

President’s Commentary: Don't let the fox guard the henhouse when dealing with Canadian pensions

dblaikie — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 19:00:00 -0400

(19 March 2009) - The first of two commentaries by James Clancy, national president of the National Union of Public and General Employees (NUPGE), on the challenges facing pension plans in Canada.

‘Say on pay’ proposal accepted by all of Canada’s ‘Big Five’ Banks

dfudge — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 11:25:38 -0400

Shareholders at all of Canada's ‘Big Five’ banks have won the right to vote on top bankers' compensation, reflecting growing investor frustration with executive pay.

Employer-sponsored pension funds down 8.7%

dblaikie — Mon, 16 Mar 2009 17:15:00 -0400

Funds valued at $869 billion compared to $951.7 billion the previous quarter.

All workers have a right to a decent pension

dblaikie — Fri, 06 Mar 2009 09:15:42 -0500

The Ontario Public Service Employees Union responds to the report of the Ontario Expert Commission on Pensions.

Stunning $40B Que. pension loss prompts hearings

Thu, 26 Feb 2009 17:00:04 -0500

Caisse president admits making unsafe investments wiping out one quarter of the entire assets of Canada's largest pension fund manager.

Executive compensation continues to top list of shareholder resoulutions for 2009: SHARE

dfudge — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 09:29:31 -0500

Shareholders eager to vote on the “say on pay” issue will have ample opportunity to do so this proxy season.

NUPGE to engage corporations in Alberta oil sands on investment risks for pension funds

dfudge — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 11:10:05 -0500

NUPGE to partner with Ethical Funds to encourage corporations operating in the Alberta oil sands to assess and disclose social, environmental, and financial risks of their oil sands exploitation.

Governments must do more to protect private pension plans, says OECD

dfudge — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 10:57:46 -0500

Workers are rightly worried about the fall in the value of the private pension savings and governments need to step up their efforts to provide social safety nets, warns OECD

Unions call for Air Canada Call to fund pension plan

dfudge — Wed, 11 Feb 2009 12:20:21 -0500

The five unions representing Air Canada workers are calling on the Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions (OSFI) to require the airline to fund its pension plan, before being permitted to wind-up its holding company

Most Canadians with RRSP mutual funds unaware how much of their investment goes to fees

dfudge — Tue, 10 Feb 2009 13:53:54 -0500

Canadian mutual funds still most commonly held retirement investment, despite highest fees in the world which negatively impact on long-term savings potential.

Applying early for CPP: 60 versus 65

dfudge — Mon, 09 Feb 2009 10:22:30 -0500

60 vs 65 - Applying early for CPP can mean more money in the bank - the decision is a choice between receiving your normal benefit starting at age 65 or starting earlier and receiving a smaller monthly amount

Survey finds Canadian investment firms back corporate management in 2008

dfudge — Tue, 03 Feb 2009 14:26:43 -0500

Proxy vote records highlight greatly increased deference on key environmental, social and governance issues

Top court rules against Saskatchewan widow

Fri, 30 Jan 2009 09:50:21 -0500

Dispute over pension benefits dates back to 1980s.

New study finds nearly half of Canadians will be working past 65

dfudge — Thu, 29 Jan 2009 15:39:23 -0500

Workers are conflicted about their retirement prospects Nearly half of Canadians expect to work past age 65 for ‘lifestyle reasons’, while about the same number site financial reasons

B.C. pension contribution increase set for April 1

Thu, 29 Jan 2009 09:35:03 -0500

'The PSPP is invested conservatively and has weathered the global economic downturn in reasonably good shape.'

2008 record year for decline in value of Canadian pensions

dfudge — Tue, 27 Jan 2009 10:48:56 -0500

Canadian pension plans suffered the steepest annual decline on record as global equity markets continued to plunge in the fourth quarter of 2008

Pensioners: forgotten victims of the economic crisis

dfudge — Thu, 22 Jan 2009 13:53:51 -0500

The appalling spectacle of Nortel's older workers and retirees facing the potential loss of their pensions is not just heartbreaking, it’s a social and economic disaster unfolding in slow motion.

Quebec government promises to protect pension plans

dfudge — Thu, 15 Jan 2009 14:51:34 -0500

'This is very welcome news for workers in Quebec, but falls short in guaranteeing pensions,' notes NUPGE National Secretary-Treasurer Larry Brown.

Alberta, Quebec threaten Supreme Court challenge to single regulator

dfudge — Wed, 14 Jan 2009 16:06:33 -0500

The federal Finance Minister will push ahead with the creation of a long-debated national securities regulator, despite strong opposition from Quebec and Alberta

Canada planning national securities regulator

Tue, 13 Jan 2009 08:21:12 -0500

The issue is important to workers because so many depend on sound financial markets to ensure healthy pension funds.

Protect pension plans and retirement savings

dfudge — Thu, 08 Jan 2009 19:00:00 -0500

National Union policy paper outlines steps to protect and enhance the retirement security of Canadians during the current economic crisis.

Federal government releases discussion paper on private pensions

dfudge — Thu, 08 Jan 2009 19:00:00 -0500

The federal government has released a discussion paper on improving the framework for federally regulated private pension plans.

Solvency of Canadian pension plans solvency at historical lows

dfudge — Wed, 07 Jan 2009 19:00:00 -0500

Sponsors of Both Defined Benefit and Defined Contribution Plans Face a Challenging 2009

Canadian firms not doing enough to counter DB pension risk

dfudge — Tue, 06 Jan 2009 19:00:00 -0500

Despite weak economic conditions and poor market returns, most companies have taken only small steps to guard against defined benefit (DB) pension risk, particularly Canadian plans, according to a Hewitt Associates survey.

A banner year for Canada's CEOs

dfudge — Thu, 01 Jan 2009 19:00:00 -0500

The CCPA has kicked of 2009 with today's release of A Banner Year for Canada's CEOs by Hugh Mackenzie, who found that Canada’s best paid 100 CEOs tallied one billion in average total earnings in 2007 – a historical first.

Ontario government plans to allow solvency funding relief for pensions

Mon, 15 Dec 2008 19:00:00 -0500

Proposed legislation would allow businesses to spread their solvency payments from five to 10 years with the consent of active members or their collective bargaining agent and retired plan members

B.C.-Alberta pension report mixed with good and bad advice

Thu, 11 Dec 2008 19:00:00 -0500

The pensions systems of both provinces could suffer if the ‘lowest common denominator’ philosophy of TILMA was imported into pensions

2009 CPP benefits increase; OAS and GIS benefits remain unchanged

dfudge — Fri, 05 Dec 2008 19:00:00 -0500

Social Development Canada announces 2009 benefit rates for the Canada Pension Plan (CPP) and Old Age Security (OAS).

Federal government proposes funding relief

dfudge — Tue, 02 Dec 2008 19:00:00 -0500

In his widely criticized fiscal update on November 27, federal Finance Minister Jim Flaherty proposed that federally regulated pension plans will have twice as much time—10 years instead of five—required for solvency payments.

Canadian employers look to phased retirement programs

dfudge — Mon, 24 Nov 2008 19:00:00 -0500

Economic downturn may persuade older workers to delay full retirement

Unions should play a more proactive role in pension governance

Sun, 23 Nov 2008 19:00:00 -0500

Ontario Expert Commission on Pensions releases report

Failure of deregulation key theme at NUPGE Pensions Session

Mon, 17 Nov 2008 19:00:00 -0500

Union activists from across Canada meet in Toronto

Government talk about cutting pension benefits misleading and premature, says NSGEU

Thu, 23 Oct 2008 20:00:00 -0400

NSGEU says Finance Minister’s comments were 'premature'.

B.C. government to create province-wide private pension plan

dfudge — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 20:00:00 -0400

Government to create province-wide DC plan

Nova Scotia review panel calling for new province-wide pension plan

Wed, 22 Oct 2008 20:00:00 -0400

Panel calling for a new province-wide pension plan administered by an independent agency

National Union to hold Pensions Working Session

Mon, 20 Oct 2008 20:00:00 -0400

Working Session to provide a combination of education and information sharing on key pension issues at the national and provincial levels

Pension plans in Canada feel the pressure of the financial meltdown

dfudge — Sun, 19 Oct 2008 20:00:00 -0400

The value of Canadian pension plans suffered the largest quarterly decline in a decade as the credit crisis caused equity markets around the world to drop.

'Pension Tension' rally scheduled Saturday at N.B. legislature

Thu, 16 Oct 2008 20:00:00 -0400

One third of all NBUPPE members eligible for pensions within five years

Employers say they are unprepared for retiring boomers: survey

dfudge — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 20:00:00 -0400

While many Canadian employers face retirement levels of 20% or more over the next five years, most admit that they are not fully prepared to deal with this important issue.

CLC: Canadian working families want answers on retirement losses

dfudge — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 20:00:00 -0400

Canadians have lost more than 80 billion dollars since March 31

Incorporating human & labour rights risk into investment decisions

Wed, 24 Sep 2008 20:00:00 -0400

New Study Says Mainstream Investors are Assessing Labour and Human Rights Sustainability Risks for the First Time

Incorporating human & labour rights risk into investment decisions

dfudge — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 20:00:00 -0400

New Study Says Mainstream Investors are Assessing Labor and Human Rights Sustainability Risks for the First Time

DB plans can provide retirement income at half the cost of DC plans

dfudge — Wed, 17 Sep 2008 20:00:00 -0400

DB plans can deliver the same retirement income at 46% lower cost than DC plans

CPP Fund totals $127.7 billion

dfudge — Sat, 13 Sep 2008 20:00:00 -0400

CPP Fund valued at $127.7 billion as of June 30, 2008

Canadian pension assets decline in first quarter: StatsCan

dfudge — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 20:00:00 -0400

Value of pensions plans drop in 4thQ 2008 following six consecutive quarters of gains

Nearly 30% of near-retirees anticipate inadequate retirement income

dfudge — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 20:00:00 -0400

Nearly 30 percent of Canadians nearing retirement are less than confident their retirement savings will suffice to maintain their standard of living, according to data from Statistics Canada.

CLC to intervene at Supreme Court of Canada on pension case

dfudge — Wed, 03 Sep 2008 20:00:00 -0400

The case, Elaine Nolan, et al. v. Kerry (Canada) Inc. et al., will be watched closely by unions and employers alike

Study pushes for global DC fee disclosure policy

dfudge — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 20:00:00 -0400

A new research studyfinds that a standardized international policy on fee disclosure would help pension plan members become better informed consumers of DC plans

OPSEU Pension Trust to survey plan members, retirees on surplus

dfudge — Sun, 10 Aug 2008 20:00:00 -0400

OPSEU seeks input from members and retirees on how the surplus in the pension plan should be allocated

ESG becoming major investment trend

dfudge — Sun, 10 Aug 2008 20:00:00 -0400

The consideration of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) issues into institutional investment will be major trend over the next five years

Report raises concerns over lack of votes for shareholder initiatives

dfudge — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 20:00:00 -0400

SHARE report sheds light on how mutual funds exercise their powerful voting rights to maintain the status quo in corporate Canada

PSAC wants greater say in members

dfudge — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 20:00:00 -0400

More than $900 million loss in investments rocked by the U.S. credit crisis

NSGEU calls for stricter control of pension fund surpluses

Tue, 22 Jul 2008 00:00:00 -0400

Union presents brief to Nova Scotia Pension Review Panel calling for greater control over employers

British Columbia revises pension regulations

dfudge — Sun, 20 Jul 2008 20:00:00 -0400

Regulations to allow the use of letters of credit to secure pension fund solvency deficiencies

Wage Earner Protection Program now operating in Canada

Tue, 15 Jul 2008 00:00:00 -0400

Protects wages and vacations benefits of workers whose employers go bankrupt

Percentage of Canadian workers covered by pension plan declines

dfudge — Thu, 03 Jul 2008 20:00:00 -0400

Only 38.1% of paid workers had a registered pension plans in 2006

Nortel employees launch class action suit over pension changes

dfudge — Tue, 24 Jun 2008 20:00:00 -0400

Damages claimed for Nortel's 'failure to provide to their employees reasonable notice of the changes to the pension plan.'

Supreme Court allows BCE sale to Ontario Teachers Pension Plan

dfudge — Sun, 22 Jun 2008 20:00:00 -0400

The biggest corporate takeover in Canadian history – the purchase of BCE Inc. by a group led by the plan

Old Age Security benefit rates rises effective July 1, 2008

dfudge — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 20:00:00 -0400

Increase is 0.7 percent over the previous quarter

Governments need to fix Canada's ailing retirement savings system

dfudge — Mon, 02 Jun 2008 20:00:00 -0400

Head of Ontario Teachers Pension Plan calls for National Pension Reform Summit

New supplementary pension needed to fill retirement savings gap

dfudge — Thu, 29 May 2008 20:00:00 -0400

Tthe ability of Canadians to put away adequate retirement savings is in jeopardy: C.D.

Massive union protest in France over pension reform

dfudge — Tue, 27 May 2008 20:00:00 -0400

France's government wants to extend the period of pension contributions from 40 to 41 years.

Court puts Ontario Teachers

dfudge — Thu, 22 May 2008 20:00:00 -0400

The biggest corporate takeover in Canadian history hits a roadblock

Retirement of federal public service employees on the rise

dfudge — Sun, 11 May 2008 20:00:00 -0400

Retirements have been increasing rapidly in the federal public service as the leading edge of the baby boom generation calls it quits

DC plans and RRSPs will not provide adequate retirement income

dfudge — Wed, 07 May 2008 20:00:00 -0400

Many of the DC plans and RRSPs available to Canadians 'will not contribute meaningfully to an adequate retirement income'

Newfoundland and Labrador amends Pension Benefits Act

dfudge — Thu, 01 May 2008 20:00:00 -0400

Plan sponsors will be required to fully fund any deficits on wind up

Concerns diminishing about pension risk as a long-term crisis

dfudge — Sun, 27 Apr 2008 20:00:00 -0400

While pension risk continues to be a 'hot button' issue for many organizations, a recent survey reveals that many Canadian CFOs are less likely to see the situation as a long-term crisis

OPTrust set to eliminate deficit

dfudge — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 20:00:00 -0400

OPTrust pension plan expected to soon eliminate the Plan’s current funding deficit and have a surplus, based on double-digit returns from 2003 to 2006

Funding limits exacerbates pension shortfalls: C.D Howe Institute

dfudge — Mon, 14 Apr 2008 20:00:00 -0400

The decline of DB pension plans in Canada is being exacerbated by federal laws and regulations that foster employer underfunding

Legislation protecting wages and pensions remains stalled

lbrown — Mon, 14 Apr 2008 00:00:00 -0400

'It’s outrageous that after three tries, the government claims it still isn’t ready to make this modest protection a reality.' - Larry Brown

Quebec's baby boomers

dfudge — Sat, 05 Apr 2008 20:00:00 -0400

Legislation designed as an incentive for the Quebec’s large number of baby boomers to keep working pass 55 to ease an impending labour shortage.

Ontario Teachers Pension Plan faces shortfall

dfudge — Thu, 03 Apr 2008 20:00:00 -0400

Plan facing a $12.7 billion shortfall, about 11 percent short of meeting current pension obligations.

Pension decision soon for community social services workers

Wed, 02 Apr 2008 00:00:00 -0400

Breakthrough means plan will be in place by April 1, 2010

Four unions seek equal pension rights for Ontario paramedics

Tue, 01 Apr 2008 00:00:00 -0400

AMO should treat paramedics the same as police and firefighters

NBUPPE joins national campaign to strengthen CPP benefits

Mon, 17 Mar 2008 00:00:00 -0400

Employers without pension plays should be asked to pay higher premiums

Pension fund growth in Canada stalls in third quarter of 2007

dfudge — Thu, 13 Mar 2008 20:00:00 -0400

Value of all pension funds in Canada amounted to $957.2 billion for the three-month period ending September 2007

Shareholders of Canada

dfudge — Sun, 09 Mar 2008 20:00:00 -0400

First-ever sharehoder votes on 'say-for-pay' at Canada's big banks get strong support

Socially Responsible Investment surges in U.S.

dfudge — Wed, 05 Mar 2008 19:00:00 -0500

SRI now growing at a much faster pace than the broader universe of all investment assets under professional management

Canada's Workforce Grows Older

dfudge — Tue, 04 Mar 2008 19:00:00 -0500

Slightly more than two million people between the ages of 55 and 64 were employed in 2006—a 43% increase over 2001 figures

NUPGE will use pension fund leverage to combat CEO salaries

admin — Mon, 03 Mar 2008 00:00:00 -0500

Top 100 executives averaged $8,528,304 in 2006

2008 federal budget provides small measures for seniors

dfudge — Tue, 26 Feb 2008 19:00:00 -0500

Budget proposes to increase income exemption under the GIS program to 100 per cent of the first $3,500 of employment income

NSGEU welcomes pension benefits legislative review

dfudge — Mon, 18 Feb 2008 19:00:00 -0500

NS government announces three-person Expert Committee to review Nova Scotia’s Pension Benefits Act

P.E.I. Liberals cut union oversight of pension fund by 75%

admin — Mon, 18 Feb 2008 00:00:00 -0500

PEIUPSE President Shelley Ward fears province may try to use pension reserves to finance public-private-partnerships (P3s)

Employment robust for older workers in 2007

dfudge — Tue, 05 Feb 2008 19:00:00 -0500

Employment has increased 10 times faster among older workers aged 55 and over than among workers aged 25 to 54

Supreme Court asked to clarify Ontario pension law

dfudge — Mon, 04 Feb 2008 19:00:00 -0500

Appeal in a 2007 decision of the Ontario Court of Appeal to Court to determine the appropriate conduct of employers managing employee pension funds

NUPGE releases two new Pensions Backgrounders

admin — Tue, 29 Jan 2008 00:00:00 -0500

Legislative Framework Governing Pensions. How Pensions are Funded.

Expert Commission on Pensions releases research papers

dfudge — Mon, 28 Jan 2008 19:00:00 -0500

Seventeen research papers on topics ranging from the funding, taxation, and governance of pension plans, to comparative models of risk-based industries and guarantee funds.

Alberta union coalition challenges pension plan board changes

admin — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 00:00:00 -0500

Cannot 'allow the government to hijack' the pension rights of 125,000 Albertans

NUPGE seeks pension changes for public safety occupations

admin — Fri, 18 Jan 2008 00:00:00 -0500

Probation and parole officers, sheriffs, highway safety officers and conservation officers should be given the same pension accrual rate as police, correctional officers and paramedics

Growing support for curbing excessive executive compensation

dfudge — Thu, 17 Jan 2008 19:00:00 -0500

Growing support among investment management firms for shareholder proposals that address excessive executive compensation

2008 benefit rates increases for OAS, GIS and CPP

admin — Wed, 16 Jan 2008 00:00:00 -0500

Social Development Canada announced in December the latest benefit rates for the Canada Pension Plan (CPP) and Old Age Security (OAS).

Weak pension fund performance leads to plan losses in 2007

dfudge — Mon, 14 Jan 2008 19:00:00 -0500

'Poor equity performance in the fourth quarter took its toll on plans’ funded status'

Toronto to test pension fund interest in Union Station

dfudge — Sun, 13 Jan 2008 19:00:00 -0500

City will invite pension fund investors to consider investing in the revitalization of Toronto’s historic Union Station

CEOs get more in a day than average workers in a year

admin — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 00:00:00 -0500

Top 100 executives paid $8.5 million compared to average worker's salary of $38,998

Bankruptcy protection fund for workers will be operating soon

Tue, 18 Dec 2007 19:00:00 -0500

Legislation will provide up to $3,000 in wage protection for employees of companies that go bankrupt

NAPE's Carol Furlong is demanding a raise for pensioners

Tue, 13 Nov 2007 19:00:00 -0500

'Many seniors are suffering.' - Carol Furlong

NUPGE releases two new Pensions Backgrounders

Thu, 25 Oct 2007 20:00:00 -0400

How Much Pension Will an Individual Need?

B.C. and Alberta set up expert panel on pension standards

Wed, 24 Oct 2007 20:00:00 -0400

Pensions could be undermined if TILMA philosophy influences review, says NUPGE's Larry Brown

Canadian pension plans are showing renewed strength

dduffy — Sat, 21 Jul 2007 20:00:00 -0400

NUPGE's Larry Brown says its time to extend pensions to new members of the workforce

Majority of employers are considering retiree benefit cuts

Sat, 16 Jun 2007 20:00:00 -0400

Survey of 69 employers by AON Consulting Inc.

NUPGE releases two new Pensions Backgrounders

Fri, 04 May 2007 16:25:34 -0400

An Overview of Canada's Public Pensions System and Private Retirement Savings

Benefits in doubt for B.C. employees who work past 65

Thu, 03 May 2007 16:44:48 -0400

'The legislation ... allows an employer to be selective.' - BCGEU

NUPGE releasing a series of Backgrounders on Pensions

Wed, 14 Mar 2007 14:10:02 -0400

Two new publications: Pensions are Important & A Brief History of Pensions

Biggest pension trial in Canadian history resumes in Ottawa

Mon, 26 Feb 2007 19:00:00 -0500

Deciding the fate of $30 billion in surpluses confiscated by Ottawa to put on federal deficit

B.C. funds counter CFIB attack on public sector pensions

Tue, 20 Feb 2007 19:00:00 -0500

Business lobby group's 'research' on pensions laced with misleading information and false claims

Nearly one in four Canadians make early RRSP withdrawals

Wed, 10 Jan 2007 19:00:00 -0500

Critical need for a national policy on retirement security, says NUPGE's Larry Brown

Top CEOs pass minimum wage workers in first 12 hours of 2007

Thu, 04 Jan 2007 19:00:00 -0500

Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives shines a spotlight on obscene corporate salaries

Tentative agreement reached on Nova Scotia pension issue

Sun, 31 Dec 2006 09:51:30 -0500

Details won't be released until two unions now at the table negotiate new collective agreements