August 10, 2012
OPSEU members,
Pensions for most of you could take a significant hit if the Ontario government goes ahead with threatened changes to pension plans. You need to read this entire message if you are a member of one of these four pension plans:
- Colleges of Applied Arts and Technology (CAAT) Pension Plan
- Healthcare of Ontario Pension Plan (HOOPP)
- Ontario Municipal Employees Retirement System (OMERS)
- OPSEU Pension Trust (OPT)
Premier Dalton McGuinty and Finance Minister Dwight Duncan are looking for a way out of Ontario’s financial trouble. And instead of looking to corporations to pay their fair share, they’re looking to you.
McGuinty and Duncan want to force the changes – with possible legislation this fall. If they get what they want, you will lose control of your pension plan. And you may receive a lower pension than you have earned.
Please read about these changes and what they mean for you. Then, take action. You need to write or meet with your MPP to say that McGuinty and Duncan can not have your pension money for a superfund managed by their appointees. Tell your MPP you expect him or her to oppose that and other changes. Here’s a sample letter to adapt as you like for post or email. You can find your MPP by name or riding here.
Watch the OPSEU site and your email for news. We need to be clear, firm, and quick with our response.
Together, we are fighting for your security in retirement years. Your retirement savings belong to you. They’re not for any government to control or to spend.
Talk this up with your co-workers and friends and neighbours who may be affected. If you have questions, please follow up with your steward or staff representative.
Stewards and staff representatives:
Please post this message on the workplace bulletin board.
In solidarity,
Warren (Smokey) Thomas, President