The Standing Committee reviewing two pieces of pension legislation has announced a seven-city tour of public meetings, slated to begin in June.
The all-party committee on Alberta’s economic future is looking for public feedback on amendments proposed for Bill 9 and Bill 10.
The bills introduce changes to Alberta pension plans for both the public and private sectors.
Ron Casey, MLA for Banff-Cochrane, said referring the reforms to the committee was “the right way to go.” He said he had concerns about whether the legislation needed more public engagement.
“There was so much conflicting information, it became hard to wade through,” said Casey, who is not named on the list of committee members.
“The all-party review may not recommend any changes, but we can’t lose sight of the ultimate goal.”
That goal, according to Casey, is to ensure that pension plans can survive the long-term.
The reforms to Bill 9, the Public Sector Pension Plans Amendment Act, and Bill 10, the Employment Pension (Private Sector) Plans Amendment Act, were referred to the standing committee earlier this month.
In a media release, Finance Minister Doug Horner said the case for pension reform is clear.
“My number one priority has, and will continue to be, protecting pension plans for as many Albertans as possible,” he said.
“… Upon reflection, I believe the right course of action is to briefly hit the pause button and refer Bills 9 and 10 to the all-party standing committee on Alberta’s Economic Future for further consideration and comments.”
The public consultations get underway June 16 in Edmonton and end June 26 in Red Deer. Meetings are also scheduled for Fort McMurray, Grande Prairie, Lethbridge and Medicine Hat. A Calgary session is slated for June 23.
In addition to the public engagement sessions, Casey said the committee would be hearing from various stakeholders and experts, as well as accepting written submissions.
Horner has asked the standing committee to provide feedback during the fall legislature session, which is set to begin Oct. 27.
