This column focuses on a wide range of issues affecting post-secondary students. Students are encouraged to submit suggestions and educational topics they are concerned about, or personal experiences with courses or university situations they feel other students should know about. If suggest a topic or a course alert for taking notes, contact voice@ausu.org, attn: Debbie Jabbour
No mandatory retirement in Ontario
Many Athabasca University students are entering the workforce or changing careers later in life. Those living in Ontario, therefore, may welcome the news that Ontario has formally banned mandatory retirement, joining Manitoba, Quebec, Alberta, PEI, the Yukon and NWT. The legislation, to come into effect one year after receiving Royal Assent, has been applauded by many workers as an opportunity for workers past the age of 65 to continue to develop their careers and financially contribute to supporting their families.
The law amends the province’s Human Rights Code, thereby extending protection against discrimination on the basis of age to individuals over 65. Under the amended legislation, employers can decide whether to continue offering benefits to older employees.
Critics of the move argue that future generations may soon be expected to work well into their late sixties before becoming eligible for pensions. Critics point to the U.S. where access to government benefits has been increased to age 67. Proponents argue that the benefits continue to outweigh any such perceived disadvantages.
Reference
Canadian Press (2005, December 9). “Historic day” as Ontario bans mandatory retirement: Some fear next step is raising age for benefits. Edmonton Journal. Retrieved from http://www.canada.com/edmontonjournal/news/story.html?id=1a14fde9-0b22-4306-b335-092b21b8ce13
