CARP support Federal Government’s action to reverse OAS age eligibility back to 65 and looks forward to Federal Budget to claim more victories

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

March 18, 2016

Toronto, ON – CARP welcomes Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s announcement of the roll back of OAS eligibility to 65. CARP is delighted to see action on a promise that was made during CARP’s Annual General Meeting in 2014.

CARP has long called for a comprehensive approach to ending poverty in old age. Thousands of Canadians have joined CARP’s Feet to the Fire Campaign and are calling on the government to take action on the following campaign promises:

  • Reversing the eligibility age of Old Age Security (OAS) to 65
  • Boosting the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) by 10% to provide almost $1000/year more per  GIS recipient – aimed especially at helping low-income seniors who live alone;
  • Setting a new seniors’ price index to ensure that OAS and GIS benefits keep up with rising costs;
  • Enhancing the CPP;
  • Extending the flexibility of compassionate care leave for caregivers.

With a majority government and promises to work cooperatively with provincial governments and opposition parties, PM Trudeau has received strong support with which to fulfill his promises to Canadians. CARP members expect the Prime Minister to uphold the vision for Canada he set-out during the election campaign.

Wanda Morris, CARP’s VP Advocacy and COO noted:

 “Canada is facing a retirement security crisis. While we welcome the rollback of the OAS eligibility age, what is clearly needed is a complete overhaul of our current system so Canadians can live with dignity no matter their age.”

CARP is Canada’s largest national, non-partisan, non-profit organization advocating for improved healthcare and financial security for Canadians as we age.  CARP’s advocacy work is supported by 300,000 members and a network of 60 chapters across Canada.

For further information, please contact:

Anna Sotnykova  416.607.2475
Media & Communications Coordinator
[email protected]