On October 25th, CARP created quite a buzz on Parliament Hill with our Put Pensioners First Campaign. We educated and lobbied MPs about the need for new legislation to better protect pensioners in the event of bankruptcy.
CARP’s visit to the Hill also garnered a lot of media attention which served to alert MPs to the importance of pension protection. Over 70 MPs showed up to learn more about how they could protect pensioners from losing their financial security. There was broad agreement from MPs that the current situation is unacceptable; many are ready now to support changes to the laws and most of the others wanted to learn more about pension protection.
Thank you to MP Rob Oliphant for sponsoring CARP’s reception, and to all of CARP’s supporters who called and emailed their MP to meet with CARP.
Click here to read the list of over 70 MPs that met with CARP.
We will continue to meet with, speak to, and educate members of Parliament until we have the reforms we seek. Bookmark this page to check in for progress updates and to find out how you can help each step of the way.
CARP’s Put Pensions First campaign was launched after Sears Canada said it would walk away from its unfunded pension obligations to 16,000 pensioners. The retailer has already eliminated health benefits and its pensions are at risk of a 20% reduction. Twenty thousand Canadians have already taken action to support CARP’s campaign.
In the News:
Will Sears be the tipping point? Toronto Star.
Pension protection raises three important questions? Here’s a look. CBC.
Is your pension safe? Answers you need to know.
Read how Trudeau responds to growing anger over Sears Canada bankruptcy.
CBC News – In wake of Sears bankruptcy, push is on to better protect retirees
CTV News – Advocates pushing for new laws that put pensioners first
Northumberland Today – Action urged on Sears pensions: local activist signs CARP petition
Some politicians are beginning to take action: Bloc Québécois MP Marilène Gill has introduced Private Member’s Bill C-372. NDP MP Scott Duvall is calling for major legislative changes to better protect pensioners.
