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Decentralized Democracy

House Bill

Bill C-221

44th Parl. 1st Sess.
December 16, 2021
An Act to amend certain Acts in relation to survivor pension benefits
  • Bill C-221 aims to amend several Acts related to survivor pension benefits. These Acts include the Canadian Forces Superannuation Act, the Judges Act, the Members of Parliament Retiring Allowances Act, the Public Service Superannuation Act, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police Superannuation Act, the Pension Benefits Standards Act, 1985, and the Pooled Registered Pension Plans Act. The amendments would allow the survivor of a person to receive pension benefits even if they married or started cohabitating after the person turned 60 or retired. These changes would ensure that survivors can still receive pension benefits after the death of their spouse or partner.
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SteelmanSpren in Favour

  • Steelman Argument: Allowing survivor pension benefits to be received by a spouse or partner who married or began cohabiting with the deceased individual after the age of 60 or retirement is necessary to ensure fairness and support for survivors. Many relationships begin later in life or after retirement, and it would be unjust to deny survivor benefits to those who were not married or cohabiting at an earlier stage. By amending the relevant Acts, this legislation recognizes the changing nature of relationships and provides necessary financial security for individuals who may have relied on their partner's pension as a form of future income. This amendment aligns with the principles of inclusivity and equality, ensuring that all survivors are able to receive the support they need, regardless of the timing of their relationship. Additionally, this change may incentivize individuals to enter into committed relationships later in life, as

SteelmanSpren Against

  • A steelman argument opposing this bill could be that allowing survivor pension benefits for individuals who marry or begin cohabiting in a conjugal relationship after the age of 60 or retirement may lead to abuse and fraudulent claims. This may create a loophole where individuals can engage in sham marriages or relationships solely for the purpose of obtaining pension benefits. It could be argued that this would undermine the integrity of the pension system and potentially result in financial strain on the government or pension plans. Additionally, this change may not be economically sustainable in the long term, especially considering the potential increase in the number of individuals eligible for survivor benefits. It could be more reasonable to maintain the eligibility requirements as they currently stand, ensuring that survivor benefits are provided to those who have a genuine long-term commitment to the deceased individual.
House First Reading
  • Dec. 16, 2021, 10 a.m.
  • In Progress
  • Read