From: Clarence Wood, mayor of Inuvik
I want to address a deeply-concerning issue: the discrimination faced by seniors who choose or need to continue working, particularly in the eyes of Revenue Canada, the Canada Pension Plan (CPP) and the Old Age Security (OAS) system.
It’s a matter that strikes at the heart of fairness, dignity and social justice.
Firstly, let’s acknowledge the reality that many seniors find themselves in the position of needing to work beyond the traditional retirement age. The reasons for this are varied and complex. Some may have insufficient savings due to economic hardships or unexpected life events. Others may simply desire to remain active and engaged in the workforce. Whatever the reason, the decision to continue working should be respected and supported, not penalized.
However, the current policies and practices of Revenue Canada, CPP, and OAS often do the opposite. Seniors who continue to work face a double-edged sword: on one side, they are contributing to the economy and utilizing their skills and knowledge for the betterment of society. On the other side, they are unfairly targeted for taxation and have their pension benefits reduced or clawed back.
This discrimination is particularly egregious when we consider that many seniors who work are doing so out of necessity, not luxury. They are not looking to accumulate wealth or evade their tax responsibilities. They are simply trying to make ends meet in an increasingly expensive world. Yet, they are treated as if they are somehow gaming the system or taking advantage of benefits meant for those who are truly in need.
Furthermore, the current system fails to recognize the valuable contributions that senior workers make to the economy and society as a whole. These individuals bring decades of experience, wisdom and expertise to the workforce. They mentor younger employees, provide stability and continuity in their workplaces, and often serve as pillars of their communities. Yet, instead of being celebrated and supported, they are penalized and marginalized.
It’s time for a fundamental shift in how we approach the issue of seniors who work. We must recognize that age should not be a barrier to employment or financial security. We must acknowledge that seniors have the right to work if they so choose, without fear of discrimination or reprisal. And we must reform our policies and practices to ensure that seniors who work are treated fairly and equitably under the law.
This means reforming our tax system to provide relief for seniors who are still in the workforce. It means reevaluating the criteria for CPP and OAS benefits to ensure that they reflect the realities of modern retirement. And it means fostering a culture that values and respects the contributions of senior workers, rather than penalizing them for their age.
In conclusion, the discrimination faced by seniors who work is a stain on our society’s commitment to fairness and equality. It’s time for us to stand up and demand change. Seniors deserve better. Our economy deserves better. And our society as a whole deserves better.
Thank you.