We, CMG members, have taken action to prevent the approval of Bill C-27 – An Act to amend the Pension Benefits Standards Act, 1985.
 
It’s a government bill designed to immediately affect pensions at federally regulated private-sector companies and at Crown corporations, and will fundamentally change the pension landscape across Canada.
 
In particular, it opens the possibility of threatening and rolling back Defined Benefit pensions.
 
Many of us rose to the challenge by engaging our MPs, Finance Minister Bill Morneau, and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.  In addition, some members attended a Day of Action on Parliament Hill on February 7.
 
We were effective! 
 
The Finance Minister has recognized the efforts of the Canadian Media Guild and has asked us to consult on the bill by sending a written submission outlining our concerns and possible solutions.  This submission is due May 15. 
 
Please send along any concerns or opinions regarding Bill C-27 and they will be considered as part of the submission. (You can address these to me at jonathanspence.cmg@gmail.com and also to our national president, Kamala Rao, at kam (at) cmg.ca )
 
The Canadian Media Guild opposes any deterioration of retirement benefits for our members past, present and future. Further, we are concerned that true retirement security be extended to everyone.
 
Our final submission to the minister will be made available to members when it’s ready.
 
While it’s heartening that we are being consulted, this also means that the bill in its present form is still under consideration.
 
We, therefore, need to roll out further actions. Please send your ideas for additional possible actions and follow-up to both Kam and myself. And also stay tuned.
 
In Solidarity,
 
Jonathan Spence
CBC Branch President CMG
Président Sous-section SRC GCM
jonathanspence.CMG@gmail.com
416-528-8360
1-800-465-4149