Thank you for this opportunity to speak to an issue of critical importance for Canadians, amending the Canadian Human Rights Act to eliminate the retirement age.
Over the past four years, virtually every province and territory in Canada has eliminated mandatory retirement, with the exception of Quebec and Manitoba. These provinces, along with the Public Service of Canada, eliminated mandatory retirement more than two decades ago. The U.S. abolished mandatory retirement in 1986; Australia removed retirement age in the late 1990s.
As you know, under subsection 9(2), the Canadian Human Rights Act permits employee organizations such as unions or associations “to exclude, expel or suspend” workers on account of age. Moreover, the compulsory age of retirement is at the discretion of employee organizations within the regulated industry under this act. This is surely one of the most egregious examples of ageism on record. Under the provisions of the Canadian Human Rights Act, older workers may be terminated just as Canada is facing a generational skill shortage of enormous depth. More Canadians are living longer, healthier lives, and in many cases they have knowledge and capabilities that exceed those of younger workers. There is absolutely no sense in expelling them from the workforce.
Especially since the financial crisis of 2008, pension plans are under pressure, and many Canadians do not have financial resources to afford a lengthy retirement. Forced exit from work under these circumstances is an extremely cruel and senseless destiny. Elder Canadians no longer accept the stereotypes of aging. They are forging brand new lifestyles that require continued participation in the workforce. The Government of Canada ought to encourage this exciting new development by abolishing barriers against full participation by older workers.
As a first step, the Canadian Human Rights Act must be amended to exclude age discrimination in employment. A proactive program to encourage longer working lives should be a priority at the federal level. The human rights of older Canadians deserve to be fully recognized. People over 65, or over 60 in some cases, should no longer be treated as second-class citizens.
Thank you for your kind attention.