22 March 2010
Finance Minister Dodges Questions on Pension Reform
Miller demands answers why no plan for pensions in Throne Speech

QUEEN'S PARK—Today in Question Period, NDP Pensions Critic MPP Paul Miller demanded answers from the McGuinty Liberals on essential pension reform, but got only vague and unhelpful responses. Miller wanted to know why “there was no mention of further pension reform in this government’s throne speech”.

The Minister of Finance responded by repeatedly claiming that “more legislation was coming” - but failed to provide any concrete details. Miller reminded him of the Arthurs Commission Report recommendation for an Ontario Pension Agency to handle stranded pensions similar to that already operating in Quebec.

Miller also asked about reform to the Pension Benefits Guarantee Fund increasing from $1,000 per month – an amount unchanged since 1980 – to $2,500 per month. This further recommendation of the Arthurs report would help secure pensioners’ monthly income and help protect them from poverty.

“In these difficult economic times all pensioners want security from stranded pension plans being wound up” said Miller.

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Media Contact: Paul Miller (416) 325-0707

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