It is certainly the case that within the space of registered private pension plans that defined benefit plans are smaller as the share of participation in defined contribution plans are rising. I think there are a variety of reasons for this, and there are a number of theories that are very difficult to sort conclusively. They certainly change the way risk is felt by the pensioners and what risk is borne by the employers. On the face of it, if one assumes the defined benefit plan will meet all its stated obligations, then the risk is essentially borne by the employer and reduced for the employee.
On November 3rd, 2009. See this statement in context.