News & Views

For a printable version of the newsletter, click here.
Managing Occupational Health and Safety Is Essential!
Managing occupational health and safety (OHS) is complex and has many financial and human repercussions.
Prince Edward Island Announces Catastrophic Drug Program
Prince Edward Island (PEI), one of two provinces currently without a catastrophic prescription drug program, has announced plans to make available provincial funding for prescription drug costs which exceed a threshold based on family income.
Taxability of Business Travel Accident Coverage
The May 2012 edition of News & Views outlined the 2012 Federal Budget’s impact on the taxability of critical illness and accidental death and dismemberment (AD&D) premiums
As at May 31, 2013 — Market Indices
The following table shows the Morneau Shepell monthly summary of returns from various market indices.
As at May 31, 2013 — Tracking the Funded Status of Pension Plans
This graph shows the changes in the financial position of a typical defined benefit plan since December 31, 2007.
As at May 31, 2013 — Impact on Pension Expense under International Accounting
Every year, companies must establish an expense for their defined benefit pension plans.

For a printable version of the newsletter, click here.
Workplace Mental Health Trend
According to the Mental Health Commission of Canada, the economic burden of mental health problems is $51 billion annually, of which 40% could be attributed to loss of productivity at work.
FEI Survey
Morneau Shepell’s commitment to thought leadership and practical solutions to workplace health, productivity and retirement solutions is supported by a multi-faceted research agenda with three areas of focus.
Ontario’s 2013 Budget
On May 2, Ontario’s Government brought forward its 2013 Budget, including a few items relevant to pensions and employee benefits.
Update on PRPPs: New Bills in Alberta and in Quebec
Alberta introduced legislation on April 18, 2013, for Pooled Registered Pension Plans (PRPPs), following Saskatchewan and BC,1 as reported in our News & Views of April 2013.
IFRS accounting: Proposed amendment to IAS 19
In March 2013, the International Accounting Standards Board (“IASB”) issued an Exposure Draft that proposes changes to the IAS 19 accounting rules for defined benefit plans.
As at April 30, 2013 — Market Indices
The following table shows the Morneau Shepell monthly summary of returns from various market indices.
As at April 30, 2013 — Tracking the Funded Status of Pension Plans
This graph shows the changes in the financial position of a typical defined benefit plan since December 31, 2007.
As at April 30, 2013 — Impact on Pension Expense under International Accounting
Every year, companies must establish an expense for their defined benefit pension plans.

For a printable version of the newsletter, click here.
Federal Budget
Federal Finance Minister Jim Flaherty tabled his 2013 Budget on Thursday March 21, 2013. It included only a few initiatives concerning or impacting Registered Pension Plans (“RPPs”) or retirement savings.
Leave to Appeal Denied in Carrigan Spousal Entitlement Case
On March 28, the Supreme Court of Canada denied leave to appeal in Carrigan v. Carrigan Estate.
New Hope for Defined Benefit Plans?
Many employers and unions are looking for ways to ensure sustainability of their defined benefit (DB) plan, if they can stabilize costs. Some observers believe that target benefit plans represent a viable solution, but governments have been slow to amend their legislation or even to endorse this new type of plan.
Drug Cost Trends
Statistics on prescription drug use in 2012 reflect the effect of drug cost control measures implemented by several provinces and the impact of many new generic drugs introduced on the market.
Provincial Changes Regarding Prescription Drugs
Several recent provincial announcements for public drug plans may also impact private benefit programs.
PRPP Legislation in Saskatchewan and British Columbia
On March 20, 2013, the Saskatchewan Government released its 2013 Budget.
As at March 31, 2013 — Market Indices
The following table shows the Morneau Shepell monthly summary of returns from various market indices.
As at March 31, 2013 — Tracking the Funded Status of Pension Plans
The graph shows the changes in the financial position of a typical defined benefit plan since December 31, 2007.
As at March 31, 2013 — Impact on Pension Expense under International Accounting
Every year, companies must establish an expense for their defined benefit pension plans.

For a printable version of the newsletter, click here.
National Summit on Pension Reform Held in New Brunswick
Canada’s Public Policy Forum, in joint sponsorship with Morneau Shepell and SunLife Financial, held a pension reform summit in Fredericton on February 19th and 20th.
OSFI Forum
On February 12th, the Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions (OSFI) hosted its annual pension forum in Toronto to discuss issues and initiatives affecting federally regulated pension plans.
B.C. Introduces Pooled Registered Pension Plans
On February 28, 2013, the British Columbia government introduced Bill 16, the Pooled Registered Pension Plans Act (the “Act”).
Nova Scotia Announces a Solvency Funding Extension
On February 11, 2013 the Nova Scotia Department of Labour and Advanced Education relaxed the funding rules for private sector defined benefit pension plans, for the period between January 3, 2011 and January 2, 2014.
Ontario: Disclosure Requirements for Financial Statements (Pension Plan or Pension Fund)
The Financial Services Commission of Ontario (FSCO) has published its guidance note with regards to disclosure requirements for financial statements of pension plans or pension funds (FSGN-001).
Accounting Rules for Entities with Rate-Regulated Activities
Following its meeting on February 13, 2013, the Canadian Accounting Standards Board (AcSB) has extended again for one year, up to January 1, 2015, the deferral of the mandatory IFRS changeover date for entities with qualifying rate-regulated activities.
Supreme Court of Canada Decision in Indalex
On February 1, 2013, the Supreme Court of Canada released its decision in Sun Indalex Finance, LLC v. United Steelworkers (“Indalex”).
British Columbia Family Law Act
On March 18, 2013, the British Columbia Family Law Act came into effect, governing, among other things, the division of pension plan assets upon marriage breakdown.
As at February 28, 2013 — Market Indices
The following table shows the Morneau Shepell monthly summary of returns from various market indices.
As at February 28, 2013 — Tracking the Funded Status of Pension Plans
This graph shows the changes in the financial position of a typical defined benefit plan since December 31, 2007.
As at February 28, 2013 — Impact on Pension Expense under International Accounting
Every year, companies must establish an expense for their defined benefit pension plans.

For a printable version of the newsletter, click here.
Discount Cards for Patented Drugs: Could They Harm Private Prescription Drug Insurance Plans?
Recently, discount cards have appeared on the Canadian market, offering partial refunds on the cost of patented drugs.
Provinces and Territories Announce Price Reductions for Generic Prescription Drugs
Nine provinces and all three territories announced in January 2013 that they will work together in a volume purchasing arrangement to acquire the six most prevalent generic drugs, thereby driving down costs and generating savings.
Right to Reduce Pension Benefits Retroactively-Additional Information from the Régie des Rentes du Québec
On February 5, 2013, the Régie des rentes du Québec (the “Régie”) published Newsletter Number 29 regarding pension plan amendments that reduce benefits retroactively pursuant to the Quebec Supplemental Pension Plans Act (the “SPPA”)
Ontario Pension Administrative Expenses
In January 2013, the Financial Services Commission of Ontario (FSCO) published Policy A200-101 (the “Policy”) concerning administrative expenses of pension funds.
New Position of the Canada Revenue Agency on Pension Plan Transfer Agreements and Recognition of Past Service
Plan sponsors and administrators have expressed concerns in the past that pensionable service rules in the Income Tax Regulations prohibited recognizing a member’s service under a former pension plan when there was a transfer from one defined benefit plan to another.
National Summit on Pension Reform
Morneau Shepell has partnered with the Canada’s Public Policy Forum in an initiative to explore the next phase of pension reform and, in particular, to see what lessons can be learned from the New Brunswick innovative shared risk pension reform initiative, which was implemented in the summer of 2012 for several groups.
Pension and Benefit Reference: New Edition Covers New Topics
The Morneau Shepell Handbook of Canadian Pension and Benefit Plans, which was honoured as a Globe & Mail 2012 Business Book Bestseller, has now been published in its 15th Edition.
New Accounting Standard for Not-for-profit Organizations
In January 2012, the Canadian Accounting Standards Board (AcSB) issued an Exposure Draft, which proposed changes to the accounting for defined benefit plans for private enterprises and (private) not-for-profit organizations (NFPO).
As at January 31, 2013 — Market Indices
The following table shows the Morneau Shepell monthly summary of returns from various market indices.
As at January 31, 2013 — Tracking the Funded Status of Pension Plans
This graph shows the changes in the financial position of a typical defined benefit plan since December 31, 2007.
As at January 31, 2013 — Impact on Pension Expense under International Accounting
Every year, companies must establish an expense for their defined benefit pension plans.

For a printable version of the newsletter, click here.
Pooled Registered Pension Plans Now Available to Federally Regulated Employers
On December 14, 2012, the federal Pooled Registered Pension Plans Act (the “PRPP Act”) and the accompanying regulations (the “PRPP Regulations”) came into force.
New Book Defuses Perceived Retirement Crisis
There is a widespread perception that Canada is heading toward a retirement crisis. Pension plan coverage in the private sector is low and only a third of taxpayers contribute to an RRSP in a given year.
Target Benefit Plans for Certain Companies in the Pulp and Paper Sector
On December 6, 2012, the Quebec National Assembly adopted Bill 15, which allows the creation of target benefit pension plans (TBPP) in certain companies in the pulp and paper sector, such as Resolute Forest Products and White Birch Paper.
New Brunswick Fine Tunes Shared Risk Pension Plans
On December 11, 2012, the New Brunswick government announced further proposed amendments to the Pension Benefits Act (“PBA”) via the introduction of Bill 20.
Nova Scotia Pension Regulations
The Nova Scotia Department of Labour and Advanced Education released Draft Regulations on December 7, 2012 which, if approved, will introduce new pension rules in Nova Scotia.
Tax and Pension Changes Effective January 1, 2013
This article summarizes key changes to the Income Tax Act (Canada) and Pension Benefits Act (Ontario) that became effective January 1, 2013.
Amendments to Individual Pension Plans
On December 18, 2012, the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) announced that for the time being it will not require the amendments that it had been seeking for minimum payouts from Individual Pension Plans (IPPs) covering related persons, if a plan is subject to pension standards legislation and the pension regulator has publicly stated that it will refuse such an amendment.
Supreme Court Ruling on Surplus: an Unfunded Government-Sponsored Pension Plan is Not Like a Private Plan
On December 19, 2012, in a unanimous decision, the highest court of Canada stated that members of the federal public service Plan, the RCMP Plan and the regular force of the Canadian Forces Plan were not entitled to an estimated $30 billion “surplus”.
Cost Reductions in Provincial Drug Plans
New Generic Drug Pharmacy Agreement in British Columbia and Quebec Ends 15-Year Rule for Reimbursement of Brand Name Drugs.
As at December 31, 2012 — Market Indices
The following table shows the Morneau Shepell monthly summary of returns from various market indices. It also includes returns from benchmark portfolios used by pension funds.
As at December 31, 2012 — Tracking the Funded Status of Pension Plans
This graph shows the changes in the financial position of a typical defined benefit plan since December 31, 2007.
As at December 31, 2012 — Impact on Pension Expense under International Accounting
Every year, companies must establish an expense for their defined benefit pension plans.

For a printable version of the newsletter, click here.
New Psychological Health and Safety Workplace Standard to be Launched
Early in the new year, the National Standard of Canada for Psychological Health and Safety (PHS) in the workplace will be unveiled. Developed by the Mental Health Commission of Canada (MHCC) and in collaboration with CSA Standards (Canadian Standards Association Group) and the Bureau de normalisation du Québec (BNQ), the standard is intended to promote psychological health and safety in the workplace.
Facilitating Pooled Asset Management for Ontario’s Public-Sector Institutions: Report From Bill Morneau
On May 30, 2012, Dwight Duncan, Ontario’s Minister of Finance, appointed Bill Morneau as the independent Pension Investment Advisor, in order to determine the advantages of pooled asset management for Ontario’s public sector pension funds and, if appropriate, to recommend a path to implementation.
Ontario Issues Letter of Credit Regulations
On November 15, 2012, the Ontario Government filed O. Reg. 364/12 (the “Regulation”), which sets out the terms for the use of letters of credit (“LOC”) in Ontario.
Ontario Proposes Changes to Financial Hardship Unlocking Program
The Ontario Ministry of Finance has released a summary of a proposed regulation to restructure the financial hardship unlocking program for locked-in funds.
Quebec Budget 2013-2014
On November 20, 2012, Quebec Finance Minister Nicolas Marceau tabled Quebec’s 2013-2014 budget.
Spousal Entitlement to Death Benefits
A recent split decision of the Ontario Court of Appeal in Carrigan v. Carrigan Estate delivered an unexpected and unsettling interpretation of spousal entitlement to a pre-retirement death benefit under the Pension Benefits Act (the “Act”).
Update: Pension and Benefit Accounting for Private Enterprises
In January 2012, the Canadian Accounting Standards Board (AcSB) issued an Exposure Draft entitled “Employee Future Benefits” proposing changes to the accounting for defined benefit plans for private enterprises and not-for-profit organizations (NFPO).
As at November 30, 2012 — Market Indices
The table shows the Morneau Shepell monthly summary of returns from various market indices. It also includes returns from benchmark portfolios used by pension funds.
As at November 30, 2012 — Tracking the Funded Status of Pension Plans
This graph shows the changes in the financial position of a typical defined benefit plan since December 31, 2007.
As at November 30, 2012 — Impact on Pension Expense under International Accounting
Every year, companies must establish an expense for their defined benefit pension plans.

For a printable version of the newsletter, click here.
Alberta Introduces New Pension Act
The Alberta government has introduced Bill 10, the Employment Pension Plans Act, to replace its current pension legislation.
New Ontario Regulations Provide Anticipated Funding Flexibility
In brief:
  • Amortization period for new solvency deficiencies extended to 10 years
  • May also consolidate existing solvency payment schedules s into a single new payment schedule
  • Permanent 1-year deferral of new solvency and going concern amortization payments
  • Deadline for filing actuarial reports with valuation dates between September 30, 2011, and May 31, 2012, is February 28, 2013
Proposed Mortality Table and Improvement Scale Will Increase Canadian Pension Liabilities
Canadian pensioner mortality experience studies may result in a new mortality table and improvement scale that, if adopted in the actuarial standards of practice, will likely increase pension liabilities between 3% and 8% depending on the demographics of the pension plan.
Buying Annuities for Defined Benefit Plans: Why Not?
Defined benefit pension plans are currently looking for solutions to manage their risk. Oddly, buying annuities is seldom included in the strategies contemplated for this purpose. Nevertheless, it is relevant to consider how buying annuities for a defined benefit plan works and how annuities can be integrated into a comprehensive risk management strategy.
Group Benefit Changes Effective January 1, 2013
As the New Year approaches, it is a prudent time to reiterate two changes announced earlier in 2012 that may impact group benefit programs and will take effect January 1, 2013.
Who Determines the Assumptions for Pension Plans?
How pension plans are valued impacts a plan sponsor’s cash contributions to the plan and the amount of pension expense reported in its financial statements. Where costs are shared between members and employers, the valuation of a defined benefit (or target benefit) pension plan also impacts member contributions or benefits. So who determines the assumptions that are so critical in establishing the value of a pension plan?
As at October 31, 2012 — Market Indices
The table shows the Morneau Shepell monthly summary of returns from various market indices. It also includes returns from benchmark portfolios used by pension funds.
As at October 31, 2012 — Tracking the Funded Status of Pension Plans
The graph shows the changes in the financial position of a typical defined benefit plan since December 31, 2007.
As at October 31, 2012 — Impact on Pension Expense under International Accounting
Every year, companies must establish an expense for their defined benefit pension plans.

For a printable version of the newsletter, click here.
Annuities—should you take another look?
At retirement, people can transfer their RRSP balance to a RRIF or they can buy an annuity.
U.S. Politics and Stock Markets
The U.S. presidential election is a highly anticipated event that garners much of the public’s attention. Major news outlets put huge efforts into reporting, discussing and debating the merits of the candidates, parties and policies put forth. Americans (and Canadians for that matter) are highly engaged in finding out who the next "leader of the free world" will be, and how potential outcomes will affect them.
Economic Turbulence has Negative Impact on Projected Salary Increases for Next Year
Canadian employers expect salaries to rise by an average of 2.6% in 2013, according to Morneau Shepell’s annual Compensation Survey. This is a 0.2% drop from the responses in last year’s survey. The 2.6% average includes expected salary freezes and excludes promotional or special salary adjustments. Respondents say that projected base salary increases for 2013 are within the range observed last year, which was between 2% and 3.5%.
Update: Adoption of IFRS by Entities with Rate-Regulated Activities
Following its meeting on September 5-6, 2012, the Canadian Accounting Standards Board (AcSB) will extend again the existing deferral of the mandatory IFRS changeover date for entities with qualifying rate-regulated activities. The deferral has been extended by an additional year to January 1, 2014.
Alberta Provides Temporary Solvency Funding Relief
Alberta has enacted regulations to provide temporary solvency funding relief. The regulations, which were adopted on September 19, 2012, apply to defined benefit pension plans registered in Alberta other than specified multi-employer pension plans.
As at September 30, 2012 — Market Indices
The table shows the Morneau Shepell monthly summary of returns from various market indices. It also includes returns from benchmark portfolios used by pension funds.
As at September 30, 2012 — Tracking the Funded Status of Pension Plans
This graph shows the changes in the financial position of a typical defined benefit plan since December 31, 2007. For this illustration, assets and liabilities of the plan were each arbitrarily set at $100 million as at December 31, 2007. The graph shows the impact of past returns on plan assets and the effect of interest rate changes on solvency liabilities.
As at September 30, 2012 — Impact on Pension Expense under International Accounting
Every year, companies must establish an expense for their defined benefit pension plans.

For a printable version of the newsletter, click here.
Update: Bill C-13 Impact on Benefit Trusts
On December 15, 2011, Bill C-13 received Royal Assent. This bill requires that self-insured employer funded wage loss replacement plans deduct Canada Pension Plan (CPP) contributions from benefits. This legislative change is related to the reversal of an earlier Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) ruling regarding the Toronto Transit Commission/Revenue Canada case and a clarification of language surrounding pensionable earnings with respect to CPP. Quebec Pension Plan (QPP) premiums, insured disability programs, salary continuance/sick bank arrangements, and non-taxable ASO disability programs are not affected by Bill C-13.
As at August 31, 2012 — Market Indices
The following table shows the Morneau Shepell monthly summary of returns from various market indices. It also includes returns from benchmark portfolios used by pension funds.
As at August 31, 2012 — Tracking the Funded Status of Pension Plans
This graph shows the changes in the financial position of a typical defined benefit plan since December 31, 2007. For this illustration, assets and liabilities of the plan were each arbitrarily set at $100 million as at December 31, 2007. The graph shows the impact of past returns on plan assets and the effect of interest rate changes on solvency liabilities.
As at August 31, 2012 — Impact on Pension Expense under International Accounting
Every year, companies must establish an expense for their defined benefit pension plans.

For a printable version of the newsletter, click here.
Ontario’s Proposed Letters of Credit Regulations
On July 30, 2012, the Ontario Ministry of Finance released a summary of the proposed regulations for letters of credit (LOCs) applicable to pension plans. Regulations are required to implement the amendments permitting LOCs found in Bill 120, which received Royal Assent in December 2010 but have not been proclaimed into force.
Update: Ontario Multi-Employer Plan Solvency Relief
Effective July 20, 2012, the Ontario Government has again extended temporary solvency funding relief for Specified Ontario Multi-Employer Pension Plans (SOMEPPs).
CAPSA Releases Draft DC Pension Plans Guideline
On July 13, 2012, the Canadian Association of Pension Supervisory Authorities (CAPSA) released a draft Defined Contribution Pension Plans Guideline (the “Draft Guideline”) for comment.
OSFI Instruction Guide: Authorization of Amendments Reducing Benefits in Defined Benefit Pension Plans
In July 2012, the Office of the Superintendant of Financial Institutions (OSFI) adopted and published an Instruction Guide setting out factors and specific requirements that OSFI considers when reviewing an application seeking the Superintendent’s authorization under the Pension Benefits Standards Act (PBSA) to reduce benefits of federally regulated pension plans.
Proposed Regulations for the PRPP Act
On July 25, 2012, the federal government published proposed regulations for the Pooled Registered Pension Plans Act (PRPP).
As at July 31, 2012 — Market Indices
The table shows the Morneau Shepell monthly summary of returns from various market indices. It also includes returns from benchmark portfolios used by pension funds.
As at July 31, 2012 — Tracking the Funded Status of Pension Plans
Graph shows the changes in the financial position of a typical defined benefit plan since December 31, 2007.
As at July 31, 2012 — Impact on Pension Expense under International Accounting
Every year, companies must establish an expense for their defined benefit pension plans.

For a printable version of the newsletter, click here.
Voluntary Retirement Savings Plan: Bill 80 Tabled
On June 12, 2012, Quebec tabled Bill 80, entitled An Act respecting voluntary retirement savings plans.
Individual Pension Plans can still Provide Significant Contribution Opportunities
Individual Pension Plans (IPPs) have long been viewed by advisors as more advantageous than Registered Retirement Savings Plans (RRSPs). Despite recent changes to IPP funding rules, the current advantages of an IPP relative to an RRSP are expected to continue, ensuring that an IPP remains a viable, tax-efficient retirement planning vehicle for certain business owners, incorporated professionals, and highly-paid employees.
Manitoba Imposes 7% RST on Group Insurance Contracts Related to Manitoba Residents
Manitoba’s 2012 Budget applied the province’s 7% Retail Sales Tax (RST) to group insurance contracts that renew or come into effect after July 14, 2012. Manitoba has issued two Information Bulletins, one in May and another update changing things in June. There are no comprehensive guidelines so many of the details are subject to interpretation.
Update: Ontario Legislative Changes in Force July 1
As discussed in our May 2012, edition of News & Views, the Ontario government has proclaimed a number of changes to the Pension Benefits Act (the "Act") in force effective July 1 and issued final regulations concerning grow-in benefits and other matters. The Financial Services Commission of Ontario (“FSCO”) has also issued some summaries of the changes on its Web site. While the proclamations were widely expected, it is worth summarizing and updating the changes.
Update: Ontario Valuation Report Filing Deadline Extended
The Ontario Government has issued a regulation extending the deadline for submitting a valuation report to December 31, 2012. The extension applies to defined benefit pension plans with a valuation date on or after September 30, 2011, and before March 31, 2012.
Update: Quebec Temporary Relief Measures or Private Sector Pension Plans
The Regulation providing temporary relief measures for the funding of solvency deficiencies was released on May 30, 2012. It came into force on June 14, 2012, and has effect retroactively to December 31, 2011.
As at June 30, 2012 — Market Indices
The table shows the Morneau Shepell monthly summary of returns from various market indices. It also includes returns from benchmark portfolios used by pension funds.
As at June 30, 2012 — Tracking the Funded Status of Pension Plans
The graph shows the changes in the financial position of a typical defined benefit plan since December 31, 2007. For this illustration, assets and liabilities of the plan were each arbitrarily set at $100 million as at December 31, 2007. The graph shows the impact of past returns on plan assets and the effect of interest rate changes on solvency liabilities.
As at June 30, 2012 — Impact on Pension Expense under International Accounting
Every year, companies must establish an expense for their defined benefit pension plans.

For a printable version of the newsletter, click here.
New Industry-Wide Prescription Drug Pooling Agreement
The Canadian Life and Health Insurance Association (CLHIA) has announced a new industry-wide agreement to protect fully-insured private drug plans from the financial impact of recurring catastrophic drug claims that threaten the sustainability of these programs. The effective date of the new industry pooling arrangement is January 1, 2013.
New Brunswick Amends Pension Benefits Act
On May 31, New Brunswick introduced Bill 63, An Act to Amend the Pension Benefits Act, which establishes an optional new program structure available to pension plans registered in New Brunswick. This legislation represents the culmination of the work of the Pension Task Force, appointed in December 2010 to review pensions in New Brunswick, and has the objective of improving the security, sustainability and affordability of the pension system.
New Study Indicates First Chat is a Welcome Choice for Receiving EAP Support
Morneau Shepell recently conducted a research study to determine the impact of First Chat—a professional counselling service available online, in real-time. Employees using First Chat correspond by text with a highly qualified counsellor for private and immediate clinical Employee Assistance Program (EAP) support. Data was mined from a sample of 407 chats, conducted between December 5, 2011, and January 31, 2012.
Nova Scotia Palliative Home Care Drug Coverage
On February 1, 2012, in all areas of Nova Scotia, the province began funding drug coverage at no cost for palliative home care patients. The intent is to give Nova Scotians suffering from terminal conditions the freedom to make the choice of where they spend their last days. The option is not new as it has been available in parts of Nova Scotia to date, but the change makes this consistent across the province.
As at May 31, 2012 — Market Indices
The following table shows the Morneau Shepell monthly summary of returns from various market indices. It also includes returns from benchmark portfolios used by pension funds.
As at May 31, 2012 — Tracking the Funded Status of Pension Plans
This graph shows the changes in the financial position of a typical defined benefit plan since December 31, 2007. For this illustration, assets and liabilities of the plan were each arbitrarily set at $100 million as at December 31, 2007. The graph shows the impact of past returns on plan assets and the effect of interest rate changes on solvency liabilities.
As at May 31, 2012 — Impact on Pension Expense under International Accounting
Every year, companies must establish an expense for their defined benefit pension plans.

For a printable version of the newsletter, click here.
British Columbia Proposes New Pensions Act, Alberta Expected to Follow
The British Columbia government has introduced Bill 38, a new Pension Benefits Standards Act (the "Act"), to replace its current pension legislation. The new Act provides private-sector employers with more design options, such as target benefit plans, but will require the adoption of governance policies by all plans and funding policies by defined benefit or target benefit plans.
2012 Federal Budget Highlights—Group Benefit Plan Impact
The 2012 Federal Budget has proposed amendments which will have an impact on some employee benefits plans. In particular, there is a change to the income tax treatment of group sickness or accident insurance plans and to long-term disability plans for federally-regulated private sector employers.
Ontario Draft Regulations Released
On April 30, 2012, the Ontario government released draft regulations that would implement some of the amendments to the Pension Benefits Act (PBA) found in Bills 120 and 236.
Purchasing Annuities For a Pension Plan: The Buy-in and Buy-out Approach
A pension fund administrator may want to acquire life annuities from an insurance company for a variety of reasons. These annuities may serve to reduce market risk, interest risk or even longevity risk.
As at April 30, 2012 — Market Indices
The following table shows the Morneau Shepell monthly summary of returns from various market indices. It also includes returns from benchmark portfolios used by pension funds.
As at April 30, 2012 — Tracking the Funded Status of Pension Plans
This graph shows the changes in the financial position of a typical defined benefit plan since December 31, 2007. For this illustration, assets and liabilities of the plan were each arbitrarily set at $100 million as at December 31, 2007. The graph shows the impact of past returns on plan assets and the effect of interest rate changes on solvency liabilities.
As at April 30, 2012 — Impact on Pension Expense under International Accounting
Every year, companies must establish an expense for their defined benefit pension plans.

For a printable version of the newsletter, click here.
Choose the Index Wisely
Compared to the investment performance of their passive benchmarks, 2011 was a difficult year for many active investment managers. The knee-jerk reaction for investors to avoid a repeat experience is to throw in the towel and invest in index funds, which at least assures them of getting the index return. However, investors should be careful what they wish for—an index fund, like any other investment strategy, has its own risks and rewards. Before you place your bet, you should be aware of the shortcomings.
Right to Reduce Pension Benefits Retroactively
Pension plan sponsors often question if they have the right to reduce pension benefits retroactively. In Synertech Moulded Products, Division of Old Castle Building vs. Tribunal administratif du Québec, the Quebec Superior Court considered the issue of amendments that reduce pension benefits retroactively. On September 9, 2011, the court ruled that the Régie des rentes du Québec (the "Régie") cannot arbitrarily refuse to register pension amendments to which the affected members had given their consent.
Contribution Holidays and Surplus
In Telecommunication Employees Association of Manitoba Inc. et al. vs. Manitoba Telecom Services Inc. et al., dated February 10, 2012, the Manitoba Court of Appeal reversed a decision that had ordered an employer to repay $43M to a pension fund. The dispute between the plan members and the employer, Manitoba Telecom Services, occurred after a public service pension plan was replaced by a private plan when the utility was privatized in 1997. Following the transfer, the employer took contribution holidays for several years, and the members objected.
Responsibilities of Fund Holders
Effective January 1, 2012, the Financial Services Commission of Ontario (FSCO) issued policy A100-100, Pension Fund Administration – Responsibilities of Fund Holders. The fund holder is the financial institution or party that is retained by the administrator of the pension plan to hold the pension funds. While the administrator may delegate investment functions to a third party service provider, it has ultimate responsibility for the investment activities. The fund holder is an agent of the administrator with certain fiduciary responsibilities and other obligations under the Ontario Pension Benefits Act (PBA) and Regulation, trust law (if applicable) and common law. The fund holder's responsibilities include:
Ontario Mandatory E-filing and New E-filing Options
The Financial Services Commission of Ontario ("FSCO") announced on March 22, 2012, that it is making e-filing mandatory for filings with a due date of January 1, 2013, and later.
Overpayments and Plan Wind-Up
In December 2011, the Financial Services Commission of Ontario published an FAQ document applicable to cases where contributions made by the employer to fund a wind-up deficit result in a pension surplus.
Update: Adoption of IFRS by Entities with Rate-Regulated Activities
Following its meeting on March 20-21, 2012, the Canadian Accounting Standards Board (AcSB) will extend the deferral of the mandatory IFRS changeover date for entities with qualifying rate-regulated activities by one year to January 1, 2013, based on the possibility that the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) may include rate-regulated activities to its future agenda. This will allow the AcSB to take any appropriate action, should the IASB comment on this subject in the following months.
Update: Application of Bill C-13 to Benefit Trusts
In our last edition of News & Views (see CPP Changes to Employer-Paid Benefit and ASO Plans), it was noted that the application of Bill C-13 did not apply to benefit trusts. Recent developments have put into question whether this remains the case.
As at March 31, 2012 — Market Indices
The following table shows the Morneau Shepell monthly summary of returns from various market indices. It also includes returns from benchmark portfolios used by pension funds.
As at March 31, 2012 — Tracking the Funded Status of Pension Plans
This graph shows the changes in the financial position of a typical defined benefit plan since December 31, 2007. For this illustration, assets and liabilities of the plan were each arbitrarily set at $100 million as at December 31, 2007. The graph shows the impact of past returns on plan assets and the effect of interest rate changes on solvency liabilities.
As at March 31, 2012 — Impact on Pension Expense under International Accounting
Every year, companies must establish an expense for their defined benefit pension plans.

For a printable version of the newsletter, click here.
Mandatory Standards for Customer Service: Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA)
Effective January 1, 2012, any private-sector organization in Ontario that provides goods or services and with 20 or more employees will need to comply with The Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005 (AODA) (the "Act")
CPP Changes to Employer-Paid Benefit and ASO Plans
Recent amendments to Canada Pension Plan (CPP) legislation affect employer-sponsored disability benefit programs handled on an administrative services only (ASO) basis. These changes, which are effective on January 1, 2012, according to the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), have generated a flurry of communications from insurers, payroll associations and other organizations. The operational impact of these changes is unclear since insurers and plan sponsors have had little time to respond. If affected, plan sponsors need to make certain decisions with respect to their disability programs.
As at February 29, 2012 — MARKET INDICES
Morneau Shepell monthly summary of returns from various market indices.
As at February 29, 2012 — Tracking the Funded Status of Pension Plans
This graph shows the changes in the financial position of a typical defined benefit plan since December 31, 2007. For this illustration, assets and liabilities of the plan were each arbitrarily set at $100 million as at December 31, 2007. The graph shows the impact of past returns on plan assets and the effect of interest rate changes on solvency liabilities.
As at February 29, 2012 — Impact on Pension Expense under International Accounting
Every year, companies must establish an expense for their defined benefit pension plans.

For a printable version of the newsletter, click here.
Drug cost trends

Statistics on prescription drug use in 2011 reflect the effect of drug cost control measures implemented by several provinces and the impact of many new generic drugs introduced on the market. The following table compares how the average cost per certificate varied from province to province in the last quarter of 2011 compared to the same quarter in 2010.

Ontario: Changes to PBGF

As announced in 2010 and confirmed in the 2011 Ontario Budget, the Ontario government has increased the Pension Benefits Guarantee Fund (PBGF) assessment rate for defined benefit pension plans with Ontario members.

Update: Pension and Benefit Accounting to Private Enterprises

As announced in 2010 and confirmed in the 2011 Ontario Budget, the Ontario government has increased the Pension Benefits Guarantee Fund (PBGF) assessment rate for defined benefit pension plans with Ontario members.

Newfoundland and Labrador Extends Solvency Funding Relief

Newfoundland and Labrador has amended the Solvency Funding Relief Regulations effective December 20, 2011.

Benefitting Fully from the Medical Expense Tax Credit

Many taxpayers do not fully benefit from the tax credit for medical expenses to which they are entitled.

Newfoundland and Labrador's new Adult Dental Health Program

The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador has launched a new dental program for adults, effective January 1, 2012. This new program is an expansion of the current provincial dental health plan, which is usually referred to as the Children's Dental Health Program.

AS AT JANUARY 31, 2012 — MARKET INDICES

The following table shows the Morneau Shepell monthly summary of returns from various market indices. It also includes returns from benchmark portfolios used by pension funds.

AS AT JANUARY 31, 2012 — Tracking the Funded Status of Pension Plans

This graph shows the changes in the financial position of a typical defined benefit plan since December 31, 2007. For this illustration, assets and liabilities of the plan were each arbitrarily set at $100 million as at December 31, 2007.

AS AT JANUARY 31, 2012 — Impact on Pension Expense under International Accounting

Every year, companies must establish an expense for their defined benefit pension plans.


News & Views Monthly newsletter print version (pdf)

06/14/2013 News and Views, Volume 10, Issue 6
05/17/2013 News and Views, Volume 10, Issue 5
04/16/2013 News and Views, Volume 10, Issue 4
03/13/2013 News and Views, Volume 10, Issue 3
02/15/2013 News and Views, Volume 10, Issue 2
01/22/2013 News and Views, Volume 10, Issue 1
12/10/2012 News and Views, Volume 9, Issue 12
11/15/2012 News and Views, Volume 9, Issue 11
10/23/2012 News and Views, Volume 9, Issue 10
09/13/2012 News and Views, Volume 9, Issue 9
08/20/2012 News and Views, Volume 9, Issue 8
07/17/2012 News and Views, Volume 9, Issue 7
06/08/2012 News and Views, Volume 9, Issue 6
05/23/2012 News and Views, Volume 9, Issue 5
04/18/2012 News and Views, Volume 9, Issue 4
03/14/2012 News and Views, Volume 9, Issue 3
02/24/2012 News and Views - Volume 9, Issue 2
01/18/2012 Pooled Registered Pension Plans: Amendments to the Income Tax Act Proposed
01/18/2012 Temporary Relief Measures for Pension Plans in Quebec
01/18/2012 Financial Statements for Quebec Pension Plans: RRQ Allows Special Purpose Financial Statements
01/18/2012 New Brunswick Provides Solvency Funding Relief, Amends Requirement for Annual Valuations
01/18/2012 Manitoba Regulations: Solvency Funding Relief And More
01/18/2012 Amendments to the Quebec Pharmacy Act
01/18/2012 Proposed Amendment to the Ontario Employment Standards Act: Family Caregiver Leave
01/18/2012 Update! – CAPSA Finalizes Guidelines on Prudent Investment Practices and Funding Policies
01/18/2012 As at December 31, 2011 – Market Indices
01/18/2012 As at December 31, 2011 – Tracking the Funded Status of Pension Plans
01/18/2012 As at December 31, 2011 – Impact on Pension Expense Under International Accounting
12/08/2011 Morneau Shepell’s Pension Risk Index for 2011
12/08/2011 Changes Coming in 2012
12/08/2011 Expansion of Mental Health Coverage and other Amendments to the Workers’ Compensation Act in British Columbia
12/08/2011 Nova Scotia Introduces a New Pension Benefits Act
12/08/2011 Quebec Proposes Extending Regulation on Relief Measures and Safeguards for Pensions
12/08/2011 As at November 30, 2011 – Market Indices
12/08/2011 As at November 30, 2011 – Tracking the Funded Status of Pension Plans
12/08/2011 As at November 30, 2011 – Impact on Pension Expense Under International Accounting
11/15/2011 Update: Ontario’s Narcotics Strategy—November 1, 2011
11/15/2011 New Brunswick: Definition of Spouse
11/15/2011 Benefit Plan Structures—Making them relevant to today and to mid-market sized plans
11/15/2011 As at October 31, 2011 – Market Indices
11/15/2011 As at October 31, 2011 – Tracking the Funded Status of Pension Plans
11/15/2011 As at October 31, 2011 – Impact on Pension Expense Under International Accounting
10/14/2011 CIA Educational Note on Discount Rate for Accounting Purposes
10/14/2011 Investment Corner – Active Management for Pension Funds: Not the Real Issue
10/14/2011 Is Flex Right for Your Company?
10/14/2011 EAP Improves Health Status and Productivity, and Demonstrates a Positive ROI
10/14/2011 Ontario Government Expands Pharmacy Services
10/14/2011 Update! – Potential Restrictions on Commuted Value Transfers
10/14/2011 As at September 30, 2011 – Market Indices
10/14/2011 As at September 30, 2011 – Tracking the Funded Status of Pension Plans
10/14/2011 As at September 30, 2011 – Impact on Pension Expense Under International Accounting
09/13/2011 Current Trends in Drug Costs
09/13/2011 Plan Governance—Extension of Group Benefits during an Unpaid Personal Leave of Absence
09/13/2011 Changes to Canadian Executive Compensation Disclosure Rules Now Finalized
09/13/2011 Effective Absence Management is Part of Comprehensive Risk Management
09/13/2011 As at August 31, 2011 – Market Indices
09/13/2011 As at August 31, 2011 – Tracking the Funded Status of Pension Plans
09/13/2011 As at August 31, 2011 – Impact on Pension Expense Under International Accounting
08/19/2011 The Potential Power of Flexible Benefit Programs
08/19/2011 The First Step in Drug Plan Management: Understanding Your Costs
08/19/2011 Update! – Vilven v. Air Canada
08/19/2011 As at July 31, 2011 – Market Indices
08/19/2011 As at July 31, 2011 – Tracking the Funded Status of Pension Plans
08/19/2011 As at July 31, 2011 – Impact on Pension Expense Under International Accounting
07/08/2011 Revisiting the Traditional Benefit Plan
07/08/2011 Lump Sum Payments in-Lieu of Health and Dental Coverage to be Considered Taxable Income
07/08/2011 Survey on Economic Assumptions for Accounting Purposes
07/08/2011 IAS19 New Standard – June 2011
07/08/2011 Pension and Benefit Accounting for Private Enterprises
07/08/2011 Investment Corner – Global Asset Fund Flows
07/08/2011 As at June 30, 2011 – Market Indices
07/08/2011 As at June 30, 2011 – Tracking the Funded Status of Pension Plans
07/08/2011 As at June 30, 2011 – Impact on Pension Expense Under International Accounting
06/10/2011 Ontario Amends Defined Benefit Plan Funding Regulations
06/10/2011 Diagnostic Tests and Laboratory Procedures
06/10/2011 Federal Budget 2011
06/10/2011 Employer’s report on pay equity in Quebec (DEMES)
06/10/2011 FSCO Policy on Beneficiary Inquiries and Complaints
06/10/2011 Mental Health
06/10/2011 Quebec’s Bill 11
06/10/2011 Update! – Quebec and Ontario Agree on Multi-Jurisdictional Pension Plans
06/10/2011 As at May 31, 2011 – Market Indices
06/10/2011 As at May 31, 2011 – Tracking the Funded Status of Pension Plans
06/10/2011 As at May 31, 2011 – Impact on Pension Expense Under International Accounting
05/09/2011 Ontario—The Narcotics Safety and Awareness Act, 2010
05/09/2011 Workplace Violence and Harassment—New Legislation in Manitoba
05/09/2011 Nova Scotia—Fair Drug Pricing Act
05/09/2011 Changes to New Brunswick’s Pension Benefits Act—Spouses and Common-Law Partners
05/09/2011 Medical Expenses: Physicians ask for Review of Rules
05/09/2011 As at April 30, 2011 – Market Indices
05/09/2011 As at April 30, 2011 – Tracking the Funded Status of Pension Plans
05/09/2011 As at April 30, 2011 – Impact on Pension Expense Under International Accounting
04/14/2011 Ontario Budget Announces Further Pension Reforms
04/14/2011 Federal Budget 2011—Proposals on Hold
04/14/2011 Quebec Budget 2011-2012
04/14/2011 Update! – Federally Regulated Plans—Final Version of Regulations and Effective Dates for Several Provisions of Bill C-9
04/14/2011 Update! – Small Benefit Unlocking Rule Amended for Federally Regulated Plans
04/14/2011 Update! – Ontario Pension Division on Marriage Breakdown
04/14/2011 FSCO Consultation on Risk-Based Regulation
04/14/2011 More Electronic Filing Options for Ontario Pension Plans
04/14/2011 Pension Plan Financial Statements (Quebec)
04/14/2011 CAPSA Releases New Guidelines
04/14/2011 Investment Corner – Strategies to Reduce Market Risk
04/14/2011 Investment Corner – Draft Stress Testing Guideline
04/14/2011 As at March 31, 2011 – Market Indices
04/14/2011 As at March 31, 2011 – Tracking the Funded Status of Pension Plans
04/14/2011 As at March 31, 2011 – Impact on Pension Expense Under International Accounting
03/30/2011 30,000 feet - Q1 2011
03/14/2011 Morneau Shepell’s Annual Survey of Economic and Financial Forecasts by Pension Fund Managers
03/14/2011 Coordination of Benefit Guidelines Involving Healthcare Spending Accounts
03/14/2011 Solvency Funding Relief for the Broader Public Sector in Ontario
03/14/2011 The Three Components of a Disability Management Program
03/14/2011 Canada’s Task Force on Financial Literacy
03/14/2011 Online Filing for Pensions - Alberta
03/14/2011 As at February 28, 2011 – Market Indices
03/14/2011 As at February 28, 2011 – Tracking the Funded Status of Pension Plans
03/14/2011 As at February 28, 2011 – Impact on Pension Expense Under International Accounting
03/11/2011 Support During Difficult Times
02/10/2011 Update: Draft Federal Regulation Released
02/10/2011 Actuarial Reports on the Quebec Pension Plan and Canada Pension Plan
02/10/2011 As at January 31, 2011 – Market Indices
02/10/2011 As at January 31, 2011 – Tracking the Funded Status of Pension Plans
02/10/2011 As at January 31, 2011 – Impact on Pension Expense Under International Accounting
01/20/2011 30,000 feet - Q4 2010
01/12/2011 Pooled Registered Pension Plans
01/12/2011 New Alberta Health Legislation
01/12/2011 New Brunswick Pension Consultation
01/12/2011 Update! – Employee Life and Health Trusts—Ontario Proposes Qualifying Trusts
01/12/2011 Update! – Bill Adopted Securing Retiree Pensions of Insolvent Employers
01/12/2011 As at December 31, 2010 – Market Indices
01/12/2011 As at December 31, 2010 – Tracking the Funded Status of Pension Plans
01/12/2011 As at December 31, 2010 – Impact on Pension Expense
12/10/2010 Update: Ontario Pension Reforms Passed
12/10/2010 Changes to Quebec Generic Drug Pricing
12/10/2010 Long Term Care Insurance
12/10/2010 Special Options for Payment of Pension Benefits in the Event of an Employer’s Insolvency (Quebec)
12/10/2010 Bill 129 (Quebec)
12/10/2010 PEI’s New Pension Legislation
12/10/2010 Health and Productivity Focus – Study Highlights Impact of Mental Health Issues on Absence and Disability Management
12/10/2010 As at November 30, 2010 – Market Indices
12/10/2010 As at November 30, 2010 – Tracking the Funded Status of Pension Plans
12/10/2010 As at November 30, 2010 – Impact on Pension Expense
11/12/2010 Federal Government Introduces Draft Amendments to Pension Legislation
11/12/2010 Biologics, the Fastest Growing Specialty Drug Classification, Contribute to the Rise in Catastrophic Drug Claims
11/12/2010 Update! - Ontario Tables Legislation for Second Phase of Pension
11/12/2010 Update! - Burke v. Hudson’s Bay Company—Employer not Required to Transfer
11/12/2010 Update! - 2010 Federal Budget Measures
11/12/2010 Update! - GST/HST Pension Rebates
11/12/2010 Solvency Funding Relief for Municipality, University and Specified Multi-Employer Pension Plans in Nova Scotia
11/12/2010 Canada Revenue Agency Issues Bulletin on Designated Plans
11/12/2010 Health and Productivity Focus - Report Highlights Legal Duty in Canada to Provide a Psychologically Safe Workplace
11/12/2010 As at October 31, 2010 - Market Indices
11/12/2010 As at October 31, 2010 - Tracking the Funded Status of Pension Plans
11/12/2010 As at October 31, 2010 - Impact on Pension Expense
10/14/2010 Summary of Compensation of Executive Officers of Large Canadian Companies
10/14/2010 Plan Amendment to Freeze Future Earnings Refused
10/14/2010 WorksafeBC Raises Maximum Permissible Premium Increase
10/14/2010 British Columbia Restrictions on Commuted Value Transfers in Defined Benefit Plans
10/14/2010 British Columbia: Mandatory E-filing of Annual Information Returns
10/14/2010 Update! – GST Refund of 33% for Pension Plans
10/14/2010 Update! –New Rules for Ontario Locked-in Accounts Come into Effect on January 1, 2011
10/14/2010 Update! – Possible Delay of IFRS Transition for Rate-Regulated Entities
10/14/2010 Health and Productivity Focus – Bill 168—Where Are We Now?
10/14/2010 As at September 30, 2010 – Market Indices
10/14/2010 As at September 30, 2010 – Tracking the Funded Status of Pension Plans
10/14/2010 As at September 30, 2010 – Impact on Pension Expense
10/01/2010 30,000 Feet - Q3 2010
09/14/2010 OSFI Issues Guidance Note on Defined Contribution Asset Transfers
09/14/2010 OSFI Issues Draft Instruction Guide for Defined Benefit Asset Transfers
09/14/2010 Ontario Announces Two-Stage Solvency Funding Relief for University Pension Plans
09/14/2010 Health and Productivity Focus - Study Highlights Growing Impact of Arthritis on the Workplace
09/14/2010 As at August 31, 2010 - Market Indices
09/14/2010 As at August 31, 2010 - Tracking the Funded Status of Pension Plans
09/14/2010 As at August 31, 2010 - Impact on Pension Expense
08/10/2010 Update! Impact of GST/HST Legislation on Pension and Benefit Plans
08/10/2010 British Columbia Generic Drug Pricing Reductions
08/10/2010 Changes to Quebec’s Basic Prescription Drug Insurance Plan
08/10/2010 Ontario Adopts New Records Retention Policy
08/10/2010 FSCO Introduces New E-filing Option for AIRs
08/10/2010 Health and Productivity Focus - Violence and Harassment in the Canadian Workplace
08/10/2010 As at July 31, 2010 - Market Indices
08/10/2010 As at July 31, 2010 - Tracking the Funded Status of Pension Plans
08/10/2010 As at July 31, 2010 - Impact on Pension Expense
07/13/2010 New Actuarial Standards
07/13/2010 Canada Pension Plan (CPP): Modest, Phased-in Enhancement to Defined Benefits is Consensus Opinion of Ministers
07/13/2010 Update! - OSFI Requires Annual Actuarial Reports
07/13/2010 Update! - Wage Earner Protection Program Act
07/13/2010 Employer Liable for Employee Election
07/13/2010 Health and Productivity Focus - Canadian Workplaces Ill-Prepared to Manage Rising Absenteeism
07/13/2010 As at June 30, 2010 - Market Indices
07/13/2010 As at June 30, 2010 - Tracking the Funded Status of Pension Plans
07/13/2010 As at June 30, 2010 - Impact on Pension Expense
06/10/2010 CAPSA Releases Draft Guideline on Fund Holder Arrangements
06/10/2010 OSFI Proposes Annual Actuarial Reports
06/10/2010 Health and Productivity Focus - Best Practices in Absence Management
06/10/2010 As at May 31, 2010 - Market Indices
06/10/2010 As at May 31, 2010 - Tracking the Funded Status of Pension Plans
06/10/2010 As at May 31, 2010 - Impact on Pension Expense
05/14/2010 Update! – Amendments to Pension Benefits Standards Regulations, 1985
05/14/2010 Update! – Ontario Bill 236 – Pension Benefits Amendment Act, 2010
05/14/2010 Update! – Seniors’ Drug Coverage in Alberta
05/14/2010 Workplace Violence and Harassment – Bill 168 and New Employer Obligations as of June 15, 2010
05/14/2010 The IASB Publishes its Exposure Draft on IAS19 – Accounting for Employee Benefits
05/14/2010 Generic Drug Costs and Pharmacy Transitional Allowance in Alberta
05/14/2010 Podiatric Orthotics and Orthopedic Shoes
05/14/2010 Proof of Health Coverage Required for Travel to Cuba
05/14/2010 Health and Productivity Focus – The Cost of Conflict
05/14/2010 As at April 30, 2010 – Market Indices
05/14/2010 As at April 30, 2010 – Tracking the Funded Status of Pension Plans
05/14/2010 As at April 30, 2010 – Impact on Pension Expense
04/16/2010 Ontario Drug Reform
04/16/2010 Quebec Budget
04/16/2010 Ontario Budget
04/16/2010 Manitoba Reforms Pension Legislation
04/16/2010 CPP Contributions not Required for LTD Payments
04/16/2010 Governments Discuss Pension Reform
04/16/2010 David Dodge tells Canadians to Save More
04/16/2010 Union Staff Takes Action Against Union Over Pensions
04/16/2010 Update! — Federal Tax and Pension Reform Legislation Introduced
04/16/2010 Update! — Accounting Standards for Not-for-Profit Organizations
04/16/2010 Update! — Nova Scotia seeks Further Input on Proposed Changes to Pension Legislation
04/16/2010 Health
03/10/2010 Employee Life and Health Trusts
03/10/2010 2010 Federal Budget
03/10/2010 British Columbia Seeks Input on Pension Reform
03/10/2010 Harmonized Sales Tax – Changes to Place of Supply Rules
03/10/2010 Maintaining Pay Equity in Quebec: Deadline Drawing Near
03/10/2010 Alberta Government Announces Revised Generic Drug Pricing
03/10/2010 Nova Scotia Allows Pharmacists to Write Prescriptions
03/10/2010 Two Surveys on Retirement in Canada Show Encouraging Results
03/10/2010 Update! - Retiree Insurance Benefits
03/10/2010 Health and Productivity Focus - Beyond the Blues: Depression in the Workplace
03/10/2010 As at February 28, 2010 - Market Indices
03/10/2010 As at February 28, 2010 - Tracking the Funded Status of Pension Plans
03/10/2010 As at February 28, 2010 - Impact on Pension Expense
02/15/2010 Understanding Over-the-Counter Drug Reclassification and its Impact
02/15/2010 Canadian Coalition for Good Governance (CCGG) Releases Long-awaited Say on Pay Policy
02/15/2010 Morneau Sobeco’s Annual Survey of Economic and Financial Forecasts by Pension Fund Managers
02/15/2010 Expanded Scope of Practice for Ontario Health Care Professionals
02/15/2010 Conversion Privileges and Recent Changes to Quebec’s Insurance Act Regulations
02/15/2010 Update! – Partial Wind-ups
02/15/2010 Health and Productivity Focus – Aging Workforce Brings Mental and Social Challenges
02/15/2010 As at January 31, 2010 – Market Indices
02/15/2010 As at January 31, 2010 – Tracking the Funded Status of Pension Plans
02/15/2010 As at January 31, 2010 – Impact on Pension Expense
01/13/2010 30,000 Feet
01/13/2010 Nova Scotia Grants Solvency Funding Relief
01/13/2010 FSCO’s Draft Policy on Management and Retention of Pension Records
01/13/2010 Recent Court Decisions Highlight the Roles of Trustees, Regulators and Courts
01/13/2010 Accounting Standards for Private Canadian Companies
01/13/2010 Finance Ministers Will Meet Again on Pensions in May 2010
01/13/2010 Update! –– Ontario Multi-Employer Plan Solvency Relief
01/13/2010 Update! –– GST: Government Overrides Application of Recent Court Decisions
01/13/2010 Update! –– Changes to the Canada Pension Plan: Correction
01/13/2010 Health and Productivity Focus –– Aging Workforce Brings Physical Challenges
01/13/2010 As at December 31, 2009 –– Market Indices
01/13/2010 As at December 31, 2009 –– Tracking the Funded Status of Pension Plans
01/13/2010 As at December 31, 2009 –– Impact on Pension Expense
12/11/2009 CAPSA Consultation Paper on Prudence, Plan Funding and Investment
12/11/2009 Harmonized Sales Tax – Impact on Ontario Group Benefit Plans
12/11/2009 Changes to TFSA Administration and Regulation
12/11/2009 OECD’s Updated Guidelines for Pension Fund Governance
12/11/2009 Update! - Changes to the Canada Pension Plan
12/11/2009 Update! - OSFI Suspends Consultation Period for draft Defined Contibution Disclosure Guide
12/11/2009 Update! - Investments in Sponsor’s Securities for Federally Regulated Pension Plans
12/11/2009 As at November 30, 2009 - Market Indices
12/11/2009 As at November 30, 2009 - Tracking the Funded Status of Pension Plans
12/11/2009 As at November 30, 2009 - Impact on Pension Expense
11/19/2009 Alberta Government Announces New Generic Drug Pricing
11/19/2009 Pensions and Bankruptcy – Details on the New Guarantee Offered by the Régie des rentes du Québec
11/19/2009 Update! – Two Quebec Regulations Affecting Pension Plans
11/19/2009 Nova Scotia Allows Phased Retirement
11/19/2009 2010 Pension Limits
11/19/2009 Cases of Retiree Activism and Regulatory Intervention
11/19/2009 OSFI Releases Instruction Guide for Defined Benefit Plan Terminations
11/19/2009 IFRS Corner
11/19/2009 As at October 31, 2009 – Market Indices
11/19/2009 As at October 31, 2009 – Tracking the Funded Status of Pension Plans
11/19/2009 As at October 31, 2009 – Impact on Pension Expense
10/20/2009 30,000 Feet
10/20/2009 Update! - GST Rebate
10/20/2009 Update! - Pension Funding and Insolvency Update
10/20/2009 Update! - Ontario Temporary Solvency Relief
10/20/2009 Update! - Saskatchewan Temporary Solvency Relief
10/20/2009 Update! - Vilven v. Air Canada – Mandatory Retirement
10/20/2009 Update! - CAPSA Multi-Jurisdictional Pension Plans Agreement: Correction
10/20/2009 OSFI Issues Draft Disclosure Guidelines for DC Plans
10/20/2009 Future Employee Benefit Accounting (Municipal Sector) – Pension Plan Relief Measure for 2010 and the Following Years
10/20/2009 IFRS Corner
10/20/2009 As at September 30, 2009 - Market Indices
10/20/2009 As at September 30, 2009 - Tracking the Funded Status of Pension Plans
10/20/2009 As at September 30, 2009 - Impact on Pension Expense
09/17/2009 Provincial Health Care Premiums to Increase in British Columbia
09/17/2009 Prescription Drug Rebating
09/17/2009 Changes to Ontario’s Pension Benefits Guarantee Fund: Is the Government Backing Down?
09/17/2009 Employers Planning for 2.5% Salary Increases for 2010
09/17/2009 Depression Negatively Impacts Canadians’ Work Performance and Personal Relationships
09/17/2009 Significant Increases in Premiums for Letters of Credit
09/17/2009 Issues from the Past Can Haunt: Two Recent Cases
09/17/2009 Overtime Wages Class Action
09/17/2009 Udpate! - CAPSA’s Multi-Jurisdictional Pension Plans Agreement
09/17/2009 IFRS Corner
09/17/2009 In Other Accounting News... – Disclosure for Key Management under IFRS
09/17/2009 In Other Accounting News... – Exposure Draft on Accounting Discount Rate under IAS19
09/17/2009 As at July 31 and August 31, 2009 – Market Indices
09/17/2009 As at July 31 and August 31, 2009 – Tracking the Funded Status of Pension Plans
09/17/2009 As at July 31 and August 31, 2009 – Impact on Pension Expense
08/11/2009 Supreme Court of Canada Decides Pension Plan Expenses and Cross-Subsidization
07/17/2009 GST on Pension Investment Expenses: Possible Credits, Refunds or Rebates
07/17/2009 Federal Update
07/17/2009 Update – Ontario Pension Regulation Changes
07/17/2009 Update – Newfoundland and Labrador Solvency Memo
07/17/2009 Update – Proposed Changes to the Québec Pension Plan (QPP)
07/17/2009 New CRA Policies
07/17/2009 Manitoba Pension Regulations
07/17/2009 Rate Changes for Quebec’s Public Prescription Drug Insurance Plan
07/17/2009 Transfer Ratios on Restructuring
07/17/2009 Mandatory Retirement and Pilots
07/17/2009 RRSPs and RRIFs: Protection from Creditors
07/17/2009 Newfoundland and Labrador Considering Unlocking Pension Funds
07/17/2009 IFRS Corner
07/17/2009 As of June 30, 2009 – Market Indices
07/17/2009 As of June 30, 2009 – Tracking the Funded Status of Pension Plans
07/17/2009 As of June 30, 2009 – Impact on Pension Expense
06/12/2009 CPP: Increased Early Retirement Penalties and Other Proposals
06/12/2009 Some Recent Court Rulings
06/12/2009 Update! – Saskatchewan Solvency Relief
06/12/2009 Update! – Solvency Funding Relief for Quebec Plans
06/12/2009 The Flu Pandemic – Workplace Considerations
06/12/2009 IFRS Corner
06/12/2009 As of May 31, 2009 – Market Indices
06/12/2009 As of May 31, 2009 – Tracking the Funded Status of Pension Plans
06/12/2009 As of May 31, 2009 – Impact on Pension Expense
05/15/2009 Downsizing and Benefits: Beware of Promising Something you Can’t Deliver
05/15/2009 Ontario Superior Court of Justice Rules on Pension Drafting Error
05/15/2009 Surplus Sharing Settlement and the Class Proceedings Act
05/15/2009 Update! — OSFI Releases Instruction Guide for Preparing Actuarial Reports
05/15/2009 Update! — Alberta Provincial Health Care
05/15/2009 Update! — Phased Retirement for Federally-Registered Pension Plans Now in Force
05/15/2009 IFRS Corner
05/15/2009 As of April 30, 2009 — Market Indices, Tracking the Funded Status of Pension Plans and Impact on Pension Expense
04/21/2009 30,000 feet (Q1 2009)
04/21/2009 Draft Regulations for Temporary Solvency Funding Relief Measures Released
04/21/2009 Quebec’s Draft Regulation Regarding Pension Plan Funding
04/21/2009 Provinces Adopt Revised Commuted Value Standard
04/21/2009 The Impact of the Financial Crisis – Defined Contribution Pension Plans
04/21/2009 Financial Crisis Restricts Commuted Value Transfers
04/21/2009 IFRS Corner
04/21/2009 Market Indices as of March 31, 2009
04/21/2009 Tracking the Funded Status of Pension Plans as of March 31, 2009
04/21/2009 Impact on Pension Expense as of March 31, 2009
03/17/2009 Update - Decision Stands - No Distribution of Surplus on Partial Wind-Ups in Federal Jurisdiction
03/17/2009 Update - Labatt Class Action Settled
03/17/2009 Update - Temporary Solvency Relief in Alberta and British Columbia
03/17/2009 Update - Nova Scotia Pension Review Panel Releases Final Recommendations
03/17/2009 Alberta Health Initiatives
03/17/2009 TFSAs and Beneficiary Designations
03/17/2009 DC Plan-to-Plan Transfers (Federal Jurisdiction)
03/17/2009 Therapeutic Substitution: Higher or Lower Health Care Costs?
03/17/2009 Impact of Direct-To-Consumer Advertising on Prescription Drug Spending
03/17/2009 IFRS Corner
03/17/2009 As of February 28, 2009 - Market Indices
03/17/2009 As of February 28, 2009 - Tracking the Funded Status of Pension Plans
03/17/2009 As of February 28, 2009 - Impact on Pension Expense
03/11/2009 2008: The Year in Pension Legislation
02/16/2009 Risk Management with Liability Driven Investing
02/16/2009 Potential Impact of the US Financial Meltdown on Group Insurance Plans
02/16/2009 Remedy for Medication Cost Increases
02/16/2009 New Responsibilities for BC Pharmacists as of January 1
02/16/2009 Update - Wage Earner Protection Program Act
02/16/2009 Update - Quebec Adopts Some Solvency Relief Measures
02/16/2009 IFRS Corner
02/16/2009 As of January 31, 2009 - Market Indices
02/16/2009 As of January 31, 2009 - Tracking the Funded Status of Pension Plans
02/16/2009 As of January 31, 2009 - Impact on Pension Expense
01/13/2009 Temporary Solvency Funding Relief Across Canada
01/13/2009 New Standards Will Lower Commuted Values
01/13/2009 Securities Lending and the Financial Crisis
01/13/2009 Ontario Changes Division of Pensions on Marriage Breakdown
01/13/2009 US Proposes Adopting International Financial Reporting Standards
01/13/2009 OSC Reminds Companies with Defined Benefits Plans of Disclosure Rules
01/13/2009 IFRS Corner
01/13/2009 Morneau Sobeco Survey of Economic and Financial Forecasts by Pension Fund Managers
01/13/2009 As of December 31, 2008 - Market Indices
01/13/2009 As of December 31, 2008 - Tracking the Funded Status of Pension Plans
01/13/2009 As of December 31, 2008 - Impact on Pension Plans
12/12/2008 Alberta/British Columbia Joint Expert Panel Releases Report
12/12/2008 Federal Economic and Fiscal Statement 2008
12/12/2008 Impact of Asthma Misdiagnoses
12/12/2008 Communication of Group TFSAs
12/12/2008 Canada’s Top Employers List Update!
12/12/2008 Court Rules in Favour of Former Members in Rogers v. Buschau
12/12/2008 New Brunswick Recognizes Same-Sex Pension Benefits
12/12/2008 Nova Scotia Clarifies Funding on Wind-Up
12/12/2008 Market Indices of November 30, 2008
12/12/2008 Tracking the Funded Status of Pension Plans
12/12/2008 Impact on Pension Expense
11/24/2008 The Ontario Expert Commission on Pensions Delivers its Report
11/07/2008 Nova Scotia Pension Review Panel Reports Back
11/07/2008 CAPSA's Proposed Agreement for Multi-Jurisdictional Pension Plans
11/07/2008 CAPSA issues its final report on a Model Pension Law
11/07/2008 Comments on OSFI's Draft Instruction Guide for the preparation of actuarial reports
11/07/2008 As of October 31, 2008 - Market Indices
11/07/2008 As of October 31, 2008 - Tracking the Funded Status of Pension Plans
11/07/2008 As of October 31, 2008 - Impact on the Pension Expense
10/08/2008 Managing Your Capital Accumulation Plan during the Current Crisis
10/08/2008 As of September 30, 2008 - Market Indices
10/08/2008 Evolution of the Financial Situation of Pension Plans
10/08/2008 Impact on the Pension Expense
10/01/2008 Market Indices as of September 30, 2008
09/24/2008 New Canadian Executive Compensation Disclosure Rules Are Now in Effect
09/24/2008 Supreme Court of Canada Rules on Mandatory Retirement
09/24/2008 Alberta - Phased Retirement
09/24/2008 British Columbia Allows Letters of Credit and Solvency Exemptions for Multi-Employer Negotiated Cost Pension Plans
09/24/2008 As of August 31- Market Indices
09/24/2008 As of August 31 - Evolution of the Financial Situation of Pension Plans
09/24/2008 As of August 31 - Impact on the Pension Expense
08/29/2008 Pension Fund Governance - Draft OECD Guidelines for Comments
08/29/2008 Market Indices
08/29/2008 Evolution of the Financial Situation of Pension Plans
08/29/2008 Impact on the Pension Expense
07/31/2008 Surplus Distribution Not Required for Federal Partial Plan Termination
07/31/2008 Wage Earner Protection Program Act - Pension Priorities on Bankruptcy
07/31/2008 Pending Changes to Actuarial Standards for Calculating Pension Commuted Values
07/31/2008 New Federal Unlocking Rules
07/31/2008 Market Indices
07/31/2008 Evolution of the Financial Situation of Pension Plans
07/31/2008 Impact on the Pension Expense
06/30/2008 TFSAs Gain Momentum with Passing of Legislation
06/30/2008 Adoption of Bill 68 in Quebec - Phased Retirement and the Legislator's Reaction to the Kelly Decision
06/30/2008 Code of Conduct for Members of a Pension Scheme Governing Body
06/30/2008 Burke v. Hudson's Bay Company: Transfer of Surplus and Plan Expenses - Interpretation of Plan Documents
06/30/2008 Wronko Wrongful Dismissal - Unilateral Change of Employment Contract
06/30/2008 British Columbia's Phased Retirement - Update
06/30/2008 Newfoundland and Labrador's Full Funding on Wind-up - Update
06/30/2008 Market Indices
06/30/2008 Evolution of the Financial Situation of Pension Plans
06/30/2008 Impact on the Pension Expense
05/30/2008 British Columbia's Phased Retirement Changes
05/30/2008 New Brunswick Passes Same-Sex Pension Benefits Amendment
05/30/2008 Hydro One: Partial Wind-ups
05/30/2008 Newfoundland and Labrador is the Latest Province to Require Full Funding on Wind-up
05/30/2008 Ontario's Division of Pensions Consultation
05/30/2008 IASB's Proposed Amendments to IAS19 - Accounting for Employee Benefits
05/30/2008 Market Indices
05/30/2008 Evolution of the Financial Situation of Pension Plans
05/30/2008 Impact on the Pension Expense
04/30/2008 The Kelly Decision: does it narrow the scope of the SPP Act?
04/30/2008 Proposed Changes to Canadian Executive Compensation Disclosure Rules
04/30/2008 2008 Ontario Budget
04/30/2008 Market Indices
04/30/2008 Evolution of the Financial Situation of Pension Plans
04/30/2008 Impact on the Pension Expense
04/15/2008 2007 Survey on the Impact of Pension Funds on Corporate Financial Results
04/08/2008 Phased Retirement in Quebec: Bill 68 Tabled
03/31/2008 2008 Federal Budget - Update!
03/31/2008 FASB Wants You to Provide More Detail About the Risk Exposure of Your Pension Plan Assets
03/31/2008 Ontario Expert Commission on Pensions
03/31/2008 The Accounting Standards Board of Canada Confirms Transition to the International Accounting Standards
03/31/2008 The Lennon v. Ontario Decision
03/31/2008 Alberta Letter of Credit Regulations
03/31/2008 As of February 29, 2008 - Market Indices (Monthly Summary of Returns from Various Market Indices)
03/31/2008 As of February 29, 2008 - Evolution of the Financial Situation of Pension Plans
03/31/2008 As of February 29, 2008 - Impact on the Pension Expense
02/27/2008 2008 Federal Budget Introduces New Savings Vehicle
02/27/2008 As of January 31, 2008 - Market Indices (Monthly Summary of Returns from Various Market Indices)
02/27/2008 As of January 31, 2008 - The Evolution of the Financial Situation of Pension Plans
02/27/2008 As of January 31, 2008 - Impact of the Pension Expense
01/31/2008 Legislation Permitting Phased Retirement Received Royal Assent
01/31/2008 OSFI Endorses Final Location Method for Benefit Calculations
01/31/2008 Asset Transfer on Plan Merger: the Lennon v. Ontario (Superintendent of Financial Services) Case
01/31/2008 New Brunswick Recognizes Same-Sex Pension Benefits
01/31/2008 Nova Scotia Funding Update
01/31/2008 As of December 31, 2007 - Market Indices (Monthly Summary of Returns from Various Market Indices)
01/31/2008 As of December 31, 2007 - The Evolution of the Financial Situation of Pension Plans
01/31/2008 As of December 31, 2007 - Impact of the Pension Expense
12/17/2007 Nova Scotia Proposes Full Funding on Plan Wind-up
12/17/2007 Nova Scotia Court Rules Michelin's Contribution Holidays Were Valid
12/17/2007 As of November 30, 2007 - Market Indices (Monthly Summary of Returns from Various Market Indices)
12/17/2007 As of November 30, 2007 - The Evolution of the Financial Situation of Pension Plans
12/17/2007 As of November 30, 2007 - Impact of the Pension Expense
11/30/2007 The Federal Government Introduces the Announced Draft Legislation to Facilitate Phased Retirement
11/30/2007 Financial Position of Pension Plans as at December 31, 2007: Good News Ahead?
10/29/2007 Morneau Sobeco's Submission to the Ontario Expert Commission on Pensions
10/29/2007 Ontario Court's Decision in the Hydro One Case
10/29/2007 Alberta and British Columbia to Review Pension Standards
10/29/2007 Market Indices
10/29/2007 The Evolution of the Financial Situation of Pension Plans
10/29/2007 Impact of the Pension Expense
10/22/2007 Pension Plan Amendments: Summary of the Sutherland v. Hudson's Bay Co. Case
10/22/2007 Changes to the Rules for Ontario Locked-In Accounts
10/22/2007 Solvency Funding Relief for Multi-Employer Pension Plans Registered in Ontario
10/22/2007 New-Brunswick Now Requires Full Funding on Plan Wind-Up
10/22/2007 The Canadian Securities Administrators (CSA) is Backing Off Proposed Changes to Executive Compensation Disclosure Requirements
08/21/2007 Employee Future Benefits Accounting: AcSB Not Going Ahead with Modifications Proposed in March 2007
08/21/2007 Baby Boomers Aren't Saving Enough
08/21/2007 Ailing Pension Plans - A 10-Point Prescription Program
08/21/2007 New Brunswick Now Requires Full Funding On Plan Wind-up
08/21/2007 Retiree Benefits in the Spotlight Again
08/21/2007 Supplementary Pensions vs Canada Revenue Agency
08/21/2007 FSCO - Pension Assessments Replace Annual Information Return Fees
08/21/2007 Mandatory Retirement Legislation
08/21/2007 Pension Income Splitting
08/21/2007 Market Indices
08/21/2007 The Evolution of the Financial Situation of Pension Plans
08/21/2007 Impact of the Pension Expense
07/10/2007 New Developments in Quebec Prescription Drug Insurance Plans
07/10/2007 Quebec's Drug Policy and Its Potential Impact on Private Group Benefit Plan Premiums
07/10/2007 Payment of Expenses and Cross-Subsidization - The Kerry Case
07/10/2007 As of June 30, 2007 - Market Indices
07/10/2007 As of June 30, 2007 - The Evolution of the Financial Situation of Pension Plans
06/18/2007 Provincial Budget Highlights
06/18/2007 RRSPs, RRIFs and DPSPs Will be Unseizable in Manitoba as of November 1, 2007
06/18/2007 As of May 31, 2007 - Market Indices (Monthly Summary of Returns from Various Market Indices)
06/18/2007 As of May 31, 2007 - The Evolution of the Financial Situation of Pension Plans
06/14/2007 The Marine Atlantic Case: After Monsanto, Another Court Says That Surplus Must be Distributed Upon Partial Wind-Up
06/14/2007 New Executive Compensation Disclosure Requirements
06/14/2007 Newfoundland and Labrador Amends Human Rights Code and Pension Benefits Act, 199
06/14/2007 As of April 30, 2007 - Market Indices (Monthly Summary of Returns from Various Market Indices)
06/14/2007 As of April 30, 2007 - The Evolution of the Financial Situation of Pension Plans
05/18/2007 Employee Future Benefits Accounting... CICA Releases an Exposure Draft on Full Balance Sheet Recognition
05/18/2007 Bill 130 on Prescription Drug Insurance in Quebec
05/18/2007 As of March 31, 2007 - Market Indices (Monthly Summary of Returns from Various Market Indices)
05/18/2007 As of March 31, 2007 - The Evolution of the Financial Situation of Pension Plans
05/16/2007 Manitoba's Employment Standards Code Amendment Act
05/16/2007 Legislation Allows Alberta Pharmacists to Prescribe Some Medications
05/16/2007 Quebec's New Regulation on Member-Funded Pension Plans
05/16/2007 Cancer Care Ontario - New Drug Funding Program
05/16/2007 Cancer in Canada and Long-Term Disability Programs
05/16/2007 The Newfoundland and Labrador Prescription Drug Program
05/16/2007 As of February 28, 2007 - Market Indices (Monthly Summary of Returns from Various Market Indices)
05/16/2007 As of February 28, 2007 - The Evolution of the Financial Situation of Pension Plans
04/01/2007 30,000 feet — 1st Quarter 2007
02/28/2007 Vehicle Policies, Perquisites, and Other Working Conditions
02/28/2007 Important Amendments as a Result of Quebec's Bill 40
02/28/2007 RRSPs, RRIFs, and DPSPs Will be Unseizable in Manitoba
02/28/2007 As of January 31, 2007 - Market Indices (Monthly Summary of Returns from Various Market Indices)
02/28/2007 As of January 31, 2007 - The Evolution of the Financial Situation of Pension Plans
02/16/2007 Federal Labour Standards Reviewed
02/16/2007 Nova Scotia Allows for Pension Unlocking in Hardship Cases
02/16/2007 Solvency Funding Changes for Nova Scotia Municipalities
02/16/2007 Morneau Sobeco Annual Survey of Economic and Financial Forecasts by Pension Fund Managers
02/16/2007 As of December 31, 2006 - Market Indices (Monthly Summary of Returns from Various Market Indices)
02/16/2007 As of December 31, 2006 - The Evolution of the Financial Situation of Pension Plans
12/31/2006 30,000 feet — 4th Quarter 2006
12/21/2006 Amendment to Act Regarding Prescription Drug Insurance Has Impact on Quebec Employers
12/21/2006 Retirement Income Splitting - Update
12/21/2006 U.S. Extends Compliance Deadlines for Deferred Compensation Plans
12/21/2006 Employee Benefits Accounting: FASB Makes Modifications... and CICA Could be Following in its Footsteps
12/21/2006 Eliminating Mandatory Retirement in Saskatchewan
12/21/2006 Quebec's Member-Funded Pension Plan
12/21/2006 Saskatchewan Court Rules on the Definition of Spouse
12/21/2006 Ontario's Bill 102 Comes Into Effect
12/21/2006 Market Indices - November 30, 2006 (Monthly Summary of Returns from Various Market Indices)
11/20/2006 Funding Relief for Federally Regulated Defined Pension Plans
11/20/2006 Potential Changes to Tax Status of Income Trusts
11/20/2006 Funds from Letter of Credit are Permissible Contributions
11/20/2006 New Regulation for Federally Regulated Life Income Funds
11/20/2006 U.S. Pension Legislation - Pension Protection Act of 2006
11/20/2006 Employment Pension Plans Amendment Act, 2005 Receives Royal Assent in Alberta
11/20/2006 2006 Economic Assumptions - CICA Section 3461
11/20/2006 Ontario to Review Pension Laws
11/20/2006 Market Indices - October 31, 2006 (Monthly Summary of Returns from Various Market Indices)
07/31/2006 International Developments of Interest to Canadian Pension Plan Sponsors
07/31/2006 Employees Fail to Terminate Trust
07/31/2006 Market Indices—June 30, 2006 (Monthly Summary of Returns from Various Market Indices)
07/13/2006 Draft Regulations Amending the Pension Benefits Standards Regulations Act
07/13/2006 Ontario Pension Update
07/13/2006 Saskatchewan Enacts Pension Benefits Amendment Regulations
07/13/2006 Arbitration, Not Class Action, Required to Resolve Plan Dispute
07/13/2006 Difficulty in Claiming Surpluses for Employers Continue
07/13/2006 Market Indices—May 31, 2006 (Monthly Summary of Returns from Various Market Indices)
05/31/2006 The Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions (OSFI) Issues Policy Regarding Benefit Reducing Amendments
05/31/2006 Fiscal Agreement with Quebec Municipalities—Solvency Deficiency
05/31/2006 Hembruff—Supreme Court of Canada Denies Leave
05/31/2006 Market Indices—April 30, 2006 (Monthly Summary of Returns from Various Market Indices)
05/03/2006 Federal Budget of May 2, 2006
04/28/2006 Employee Benefits Accounting—CFO's Should Prepare for a Roller Coaster Ride
04/28/2006 Bill 194—Quebec Pension Benefits Guarantee Fund
04/28/2006 Trust Language Limits Employer's Decisions
04/28/2006 Terminated Employee Wins Disability Benefits to Age 65
04/28/2006 Market Indices—March 31, 2006
03/31/2006 Provincial Budget Highlights
03/31/2006 Ontario Court Rules Against Class Action Lawsuit
03/31/2006 Plan Merger Upheld
03/31/2006 Post-Retirement Benefits - Commuted Pension Value Versus a Monthly Pension
03/31/2006 Bill 120 - Public Curator and Unclaimed Property
03/31/2006 Private Healthcare in Quebec - Government Response to the Chaoulli Ruling
03/31/2006 Market Indices - February 28, 2006
02/28/2006 Is the World Moving Towards Later Retirement Age?
02/28/2006 SEC's New Executive Compensation Disclosure Rules
02/28/2006 Employee Benefits Accounting...Changes Underway
02/28/2006 Recent Changes to The Regulations of The New Brunswick Pension Benefits Act
02/28/2006 Pension Surplus Transfer on Sale of Business
02/28/2006 Market Indices - January 31, 2006 (Monthly Summary of Returns from Various Market Indices)
01/31/2006 Quebec's Bill 136
01/31/2006 Alberta Releases Discussion Paper on Proposed Regulations Related to Bill 35
01/31/2006 Market Indices — December 31, 2005 (Monthly Summary of Returns from Various Market Indices)
12/15/2005 Discount Rate as of December 31, 2005: Should an Increase of 2006 Pension Costs be on the Radar Screen?
12/15/2005 Amendments to Bankruptcy Acts and how it Affects Pension Plans
12/15/2005 Civil Liability for Corporate Disclosure
12/15/2005 Ontario Mandatory Retirement
12/15/2005 Jointly-Sponsored Pension Plans
12/15/2005 Income Trusts
12/15/2005 Parental Leave in Quebec - Correction
12/15/2005 Market Indices - November 30, 2005
11/30/2005 The CRA is Re-engineering its RPP Review Process
11/30/2005 Administrator's Disclosure Duties
11/30/2005 Parental Leave in Quebec: Contributions to the Quebec Parental Insurance Plan
11/30/2005 Market Indices - October 31, 2005 (Monthly Summary of Returns from Various Market Indices)
10/26/2005 Easing Measures for Pension Plan Funding in Quebec
10/26/2005 2005 Survey on the Impact of Pension Funds on Corporate Financial Results
10/26/2005 Significant Change in the Quebec Case Law Concerning Entitlement to a Surplus - Conclusion
10/26/2005 Market Indices - September 30, 2005 (Monthly Summary of Returns from Various Market Indices)
09/23/2005 Executive Pensions are Hotter Than Ever!
09/23/2005 Ontario Consulting Paper—Jointly-Sponsored Defined Benefit Pension Plans
09/23/2005 Compensation Trends and Projections for 2006
09/23/2005 Private Health Care in Quebec: Judgment Stayed for One Year
09/23/2005 Market Indices—August 31, 2005
08/23/2005 New Canadian Institute of Actuaries Standards of Practice for Valuations of Post-Employment Benefit Plans
08/23/2005 Quebec's Public Prescription Drug Insurance Plan Rates Increased
08/23/2005 Ontario Pension Legislation and Forms Recognize Same-Sex Spouses
08/23/2005 Ontario Proposes to Eliminate Mandatory Retirement
08/23/2005 Market Indices - July 31, 2005
07/29/2005 Federal Government to Prioritize Regular Contributions for Pension Plans
07/29/2005 FSCO Risk-Based Pension Investment Monitoring Model
07/29/2005 United Air Lines Ordered to Pay Into Canadian Pension Fund
07/29/2005 New Manitoba Legislation for Retirement Funds
07/29/2005 Saskatchewan's Pension Act Becomes Law
07/29/2005 OHIP: Re-listing of physiotherapy services!
07/29/2005 Market Indices—June 30, 2005
06/10/2005 Healthcare Insurance in Quebec: the Supreme Court of Canada Opens the Door to Private Insurance
06/10/2005 Federal Consultation on Pension Plan Funding
06/10/2005 Quebec Proposes Major Changes to Pension Plan Funding
06/10/2005 OECD Guidelines for Pension Fund Governance
06/10/2005 Market Indices — May 31, 2005
05/20/2005 Quebec Pension Update
05/20/2005 Significant Change in the Quebec Case Law Concerning Entitlement to a Surplus
05/20/2005 Bill 195—Retirees' Right to Express Their Opinion Regarding a Proposal by the Employer
05/20/2005 Bill 102—Quebec to Relax Pension Plan Funding Rules
05/20/2005 Parental Leave—Quebec and Ottawa Agree
05/20/2005 Market Indices—April 30, 2005
04/12/2005 Additional Benefit and the New CIA Standard: Adoption of a New Regulation in Quebec
04/12/2005 Proposed Changes to The Pension Benefits Act of Manitoba
04/12/2005 FSCO Policy B100-110
04/12/2005 Partition of Supplemental Pension Plan Benefits in Quebec: Forms That Make it Easier!
04/12/2005 Intersan Inc. v. Régie des rentes du Québec
04/12/2005 Morneau Sobeco's Annual Survey of Economic and Financial Forecasts by Pension Fund Managers
04/12/2005 Market Indices - March 31, 2005
03/15/2005 Income Trusts in Ontario
03/15/2005 Inclusion of Income Trusts in the S&P/TXS Composite Index
03/15/2005 Nova Scotia Removes Requirement to Fund Grow-in Benefits
03/15/2005 Quebec's Drug Policy
03/15/2005 Ontario Pension Update
03/15/2005 Market Indices - February 28, 2005
03/11/2005 Market Indices — December 31, 2004
02/24/2005 Federal Budget of February 23, 2005
01/21/2005 Reminder: New CIA Standard for Pension Commuted Values Effective February 1, 2005
01/21/2005 Pension Plan Funding - Development of New Actuarial Practice Standards
01/21/2005 Same-Sex Marriages Might Become Legal in Canada
01/21/2005 New Guidance for Disclosure of Executive Retirement Benefits
01/21/2005 Market Indices - December 31, 2004
12/17/2004 New US tax measures could severely affect your supplemental pension plans
12/17/2004 Quebec — Certain draft regulations affecting pension plans have been published lately and the Régie des rentes du Québec is making forms available on its Internet site
12/17/2004 Market Indices — November 30, 2004
12/17/2004 Proposed Change to the Filing Deadline for Past Service Pension Adjustments
11/26/2004 VIOXX Drug Reimbursement
11/04/2004 CAPSA's Governance Guidelines
11/04/2004 Additional Pension Benefit and New Standard for Transfert Values in Québec
11/04/2004 Removing "Grow-in Benefits" from the Nova Scotia Pension Benefits Act
11/04/2004 Increase in the CPP Pensionable Earnings Ceiling for 2005
11/04/2004 Market Indices - October 31, 2004
10/18/2004 Federal/Provincial Agreement on Health Care
10/18/2004 Ontario Provincial Plan (OHIP) — Benefit De-listings
10/18/2004 New in Quebec: Member-Funded Pension Plan
10/18/2004 Same-sex spouses can also divorce!
09/21/2004 Morneau Sobeco's Compensation Trends and Projections for 2005
09/21/2004 2004 Economic Assumptions — CICA Section 3461
09/21/2004 Market Indices — August 31, 2004
09/14/2004 2004 Economic Assumptions CICA Section 3461 - Highlights of our annual survey results
08/20/2004 A.I.R. fee increase in Ontario
08/20/2004 A proposed risk-based investment monitoring model for supervising defined benefit pension plans
08/20/2004 Pension Plans – Air Canada is provided with funding relief!
08/20/2004 Market Indices – July 31, 2004
08/03/2004 Supreme Court of Canada decides the Monsanto case: surplus distribution on partial wind up
07/15/2004 Modifications to the parameters of the Quebec Basic Prescription Drug Insurance Plan
07/15/2004 CIA Board decision on the standard of practice for determining pension commuted values
07/15/2004 Coming into force of Manitoba's Common-Law Partners' property Act
07/15/2004 Saskatchewan's Bill 47 is adopted
07/15/2004 Market Indices — June 30, 2004
06/09/2004 Market Indices – May 31 2004
06/09/2004 CAP Guidelines Adopted!
06/09/2004 Proposed Amendments to the Pension Benefits Act 1992 of Saskatchewan
06/04/2004 New Canada Revenue Agency Newsletters
06/04/2004 Quebec's National Assembly Bill 195 Amending the Supplemental Pension Plans Act
06/04/2004 The New Standard of Practice for Determining Pension Commuted Values: not for September 2004
06/04/2004 Duty to Advise Members of Possible Pension Plan Amendments
06/04/2004 Amendments to Quebec's Regulation Regarding Simplified Pension Plans
05/11/2004 Market Indices – April 30 2004
05/11/2004 Proposed Amendments to the Income Tax Act - PSPA Implications
04/01/2004 2004 Federal Budget
04/01/2004 Accounting for Employee Future Benefits
03/22/2004 New Standard for Pension Commuted Values
03/22/2004 The Stairs Decision
03/22/2004 Market Indices – February 29 2004
02/23/2004 Compassionate Care Benefits
02/23/2004 Survey of Economic and Financial Forecasts
02/12/2004 Market Indices – January 31 2004
02/12/2004 CAPSA Proposes Regulatory Principles for a Model Pension Law
02/12/2004 New 2003 RRSP Contribution Limit
06/17/2003 New Unlocking Provisions in the Province of Alberta
06/17/2003 Modifications to the Parameters of the Quebec Basic Drug Insurance Plan
06/17/2003 Government Moving Forward with Elimination of Mandatory Retirement at Age 65
06/17/2003 Proposed Changes to the Federal Income Tax Regulations