Hands Off OAS

On January 27, 2012, Prime Minister Stephen Harper said:

“We have already taken steps to limit the growth of our health care spending over that period. We must do the same for our retirement income system. Fortunately, the centerpiece of that system, the Canada Pension Plan, is fully funded, actuarially sound and does not need to be changed. For those elements of the system that are not funded, we will make the changes necessary to ensure sustainability for the next generation while not affecting current recipients.”

This has been interpreted to mean that the government is planning to gradually raise the age of eligibility for Old Age Security from 65 to 67. Government spokespeople have not denied this but only say that people already receiving OAS, or who will “soon” receive it, will not be affected.

CARP members are opposed to this erosion of the social safety net especially since the issue has not been put to voters. And it could be a political game changer.

CARP is calling for a halt to any such plans and for a full public review of any proposed changes to a major pillar of Canadians’ retirement security.

You can use CARP E-voice to email your own MP to let him or her know what you think. And Join CARP to add your voice to ours!

Please check back here for full updates.

Please visit our Hands Off OAS Campaign