Hi Everybody ;
I just thought I best let everybody know . Even though the McGuinty Government has opened up 50% unlocking of Ontario LIF's .
We are not letting up . We still need the petitions sent in supporting Ted's Private Members Bill 116 .
If we have a little bit of luck on our side we could get the Bill passed if McGuinty allows a free vote and we have the support of the Conservatives and NDP .
If not at least it will be a good launch into the next election and at that time I am sure the party that gets in will unlock these pensions fully with protection of RRIF's from creditors . If the people of Ontario vote in this so called Premier again . Then all I can say is we deserve what we vote for .
Take Care Bill C
Saturday, March 28, 2009
Thursday, March 26, 2009
50% Unlocking , Half way there
Hi Everybody ;
Bellow is a press release that Susan Eng of CARP has sent out .
The Coalition of Independent LIF holders would like to Thank Susan and CARP for all the efforts they have put into have these pensions unlocked . We in the Coalition and also CARP will be continuing the fight to have these funds unlocked 100%
As Susan Eng has stated in her Press release that she is concerned with the GST/PST Harmonization .
I am also concerned .
The Liberals are trying to pull the wool over the eyes of the Ontario Citizens again with a out and out tax grab . If they were sincere about helping business and the citizens of Ontario . Why did they not lower the PST to 5% it would have at least come close to leveling the field .
The way it stands . With the tax on Electricity and Heating and not taking into consideration the other items that will be taxed . The $1000 and the tax credits will be gobbled up pretty fast . I wish some of these people would have to spend 1 year in the boots of people that live in the north on the average income here and just see how far their credits go . Not saying that people in the GTA and all of Ontario will be any better off.
Bill C
March 26, 2009
CARP warns that proposal for $1,000 cheques diverts attention from potential tax grab but applauds major gain for retirees with locked in retirement funds
Toronto, Ontario: CARP warns that the proposal to send out $1,000 cheques diverts attention from potential tax grab but applauds major gain for retirees with locked in retirement funds.
GST/PST harmonization hides tax grab
People planning how they will spend their $1000 cheque from the provincial government will have to think twice. First not everyone gets the $1000. Families with 2 or more people, this includes single parents, will get the $1000. Single people, including those 65plus, only get $300 – and it’s spread over 3 payments.
The cut-off is $166,600 for families and $82,000 for singles – those with incomes above these amounts will not receive the transitional payments.
These payments were meant to soften the blow from the increase in Retail Sales Taxes due to the new combined tax now applying to goods and services that were not taxable provincially before harmonization. Based on government analysis of consumption patterns, people could be paying from $185 to $1000 more in sales taxes due to this change. The budget papers say that even after the $300/$1000 one time only payments have stopped, taxpayers will still be ahead but that depends on believing that businesses that stand to gain the most from this change will pass their savings through to consumers.
One huge flaw in this analysis is that some products like home heating oil- which is a major expense for most families, especially older Canadians, - is not much subject to competitive pressures.
“Instead of exempting essential products like home heating fuel, the government is leaving it to taxpayers to pressure businesses to pass through their savings,” said Susan Eng, Vice President, Advocacy, CARP. “Increasing sales taxes is no way to stimulate consumer spending and it in fact hurts those who have no choice but spend on necessities.”
Unlocking LIFs – increased from 25% to 50%
The good news for older Canadians who have locked in funds [LIFs] is that they will now be able to unlock up to 50% of their LIFs, up from the limit of 25%. CARP has called for full unlocking to allow people to access their own money, especially in these difficult economic times. In fact there could be more tax revenues as people spend on their immediate needs.
CARP has also called for the elimination of the fees payable when people get their fundes unlocked through financial hardship applications. Budget 2009 proposes to waive the fees – 2% of the amount withdrawn – minimum $200 to maximum of $600 –for 2 years only. CARP calls for a permanent elimination of these fees.
“It’s bad enough that people in dire financial circumstances can't get at their own money without a lot of bureaucracy – the fees were an unnecessary extra burden and should be eliminated permanently but CARP members will appreciate this temporary relief. It shows that the government is listening,” said Eng.
But CARP cautions that unlocking LIFs also mean that the funds are no longer creditor proof which is an important consideration in difficult economic times.
Pension reform proposals recognize need to protect retirees and broader access to pension plans
The proposals for pension reform are responsive to the calls for urgent reform and balancing the interests of employers and employees. For example the temporary funding relief requires the approval of plan beneficiaries which includes retirees, and greater limitations on contribution holidays. There is a nod to larger pension funds providing administrative support for smaller funds and mention of something approaching a universal pension plan which CARP has called for consistently as well as a pension summit to involve retirees in pension reform deliberations.
“The budget proposals acknowledge the urgent need for pension reform, including rebalancing the interest of employers and employees, protecting pensioners, considering a universal pension plan and involving retirees and other stakeholders in pension reform deliberations. CARP members who have become increasingly anxious about their retirement security will welcome these proposals,” added Eng
CARP is a national, non-partisan, non-profit organization committed to advocating for a New Vision of Aging for Canada, social change that will bring financial security, equitable access to health care and freedom from discrimination. CARP seeks to ensure that the marketplace serves the needs and expectations of our generation and provides value-added benefits, products and services to our members. Through our network of chapters across Canada, CARP is dedicated to building a sense of community and shared values among our members in support of CARP’s mission.
Bellow is a press release that Susan Eng of CARP has sent out .
The Coalition of Independent LIF holders would like to Thank Susan and CARP for all the efforts they have put into have these pensions unlocked . We in the Coalition and also CARP will be continuing the fight to have these funds unlocked 100%
As Susan Eng has stated in her Press release that she is concerned with the GST/PST Harmonization .
I am also concerned .
The Liberals are trying to pull the wool over the eyes of the Ontario Citizens again with a out and out tax grab . If they were sincere about helping business and the citizens of Ontario . Why did they not lower the PST to 5% it would have at least come close to leveling the field .
The way it stands . With the tax on Electricity and Heating and not taking into consideration the other items that will be taxed . The $1000 and the tax credits will be gobbled up pretty fast . I wish some of these people would have to spend 1 year in the boots of people that live in the north on the average income here and just see how far their credits go . Not saying that people in the GTA and all of Ontario will be any better off.
Bill C
March 26, 2009
CARP warns that proposal for $1,000 cheques diverts attention from potential tax grab but applauds major gain for retirees with locked in retirement funds
Toronto, Ontario: CARP warns that the proposal to send out $1,000 cheques diverts attention from potential tax grab but applauds major gain for retirees with locked in retirement funds.
GST/PST harmonization hides tax grab
People planning how they will spend their $1000 cheque from the provincial government will have to think twice. First not everyone gets the $1000. Families with 2 or more people, this includes single parents, will get the $1000. Single people, including those 65plus, only get $300 – and it’s spread over 3 payments.
The cut-off is $166,600 for families and $82,000 for singles – those with incomes above these amounts will not receive the transitional payments.
These payments were meant to soften the blow from the increase in Retail Sales Taxes due to the new combined tax now applying to goods and services that were not taxable provincially before harmonization. Based on government analysis of consumption patterns, people could be paying from $185 to $1000 more in sales taxes due to this change. The budget papers say that even after the $300/$1000 one time only payments have stopped, taxpayers will still be ahead but that depends on believing that businesses that stand to gain the most from this change will pass their savings through to consumers.
One huge flaw in this analysis is that some products like home heating oil- which is a major expense for most families, especially older Canadians, - is not much subject to competitive pressures.
“Instead of exempting essential products like home heating fuel, the government is leaving it to taxpayers to pressure businesses to pass through their savings,” said Susan Eng, Vice President, Advocacy, CARP. “Increasing sales taxes is no way to stimulate consumer spending and it in fact hurts those who have no choice but spend on necessities.”
Unlocking LIFs – increased from 25% to 50%
The good news for older Canadians who have locked in funds [LIFs] is that they will now be able to unlock up to 50% of their LIFs, up from the limit of 25%. CARP has called for full unlocking to allow people to access their own money, especially in these difficult economic times. In fact there could be more tax revenues as people spend on their immediate needs.
CARP has also called for the elimination of the fees payable when people get their fundes unlocked through financial hardship applications. Budget 2009 proposes to waive the fees – 2% of the amount withdrawn – minimum $200 to maximum of $600 –for 2 years only. CARP calls for a permanent elimination of these fees.
“It’s bad enough that people in dire financial circumstances can't get at their own money without a lot of bureaucracy – the fees were an unnecessary extra burden and should be eliminated permanently but CARP members will appreciate this temporary relief. It shows that the government is listening,” said Eng.
But CARP cautions that unlocking LIFs also mean that the funds are no longer creditor proof which is an important consideration in difficult economic times.
Pension reform proposals recognize need to protect retirees and broader access to pension plans
The proposals for pension reform are responsive to the calls for urgent reform and balancing the interests of employers and employees. For example the temporary funding relief requires the approval of plan beneficiaries which includes retirees, and greater limitations on contribution holidays. There is a nod to larger pension funds providing administrative support for smaller funds and mention of something approaching a universal pension plan which CARP has called for consistently as well as a pension summit to involve retirees in pension reform deliberations.
“The budget proposals acknowledge the urgent need for pension reform, including rebalancing the interest of employers and employees, protecting pensioners, considering a universal pension plan and involving retirees and other stakeholders in pension reform deliberations. CARP members who have become increasingly anxious about their retirement security will welcome these proposals,” added Eng
CARP is a national, non-partisan, non-profit organization committed to advocating for a New Vision of Aging for Canada, social change that will bring financial security, equitable access to health care and freedom from discrimination. CARP seeks to ensure that the marketplace serves the needs and expectations of our generation and provides value-added benefits, products and services to our members. Through our network of chapters across Canada, CARP is dedicated to building a sense of community and shared values among our members in support of CARP’s mission.
Monday, March 23, 2009
Bill 116 Petition Reminder
Hi Everybody ;
The time is getting closer to hand in the petitions to unlock locked in pensions Bill 116 . We would like them sent in by April 10th .
If you haven't downloaded a petition yet . It can be downloaded at Ted Chudleigh's web site .
www.tedchudleigh.com/petitions
Please don't procrastinate and think the next person will do it . If everybody takes that attitude , We are then dead in the water .If we want these pensions unlocked we have to show that there are a great number of people behind unlocking.Have your family , children (( There is no age restriction )), friends , neighbors and whoever sign .
Please also pass this on to any contacts you have and also ask for their help .
We Can Do This !!!
The Petitions can be mailed to . Ted Chudleigh , Room 450 Legislative Building , Queen's Park , Toronto , Ontario , M7A 1A8
Or you can mail to me and I will bundle them up and send them on .Bill Costello , 6 Chub Lake Road , Box 56 , Atikokan Ontario , p0t 1c0
With the economie the way it is there are more and more people everyday that are ending up in locked in pensions .
If these pensions were unlocked it just may help some people bridge their way into retirement instead of having to rely on social assistance .
Thank You and Take Care , Bill Costello , The Ontario Coalition of Independent LIF Holders
The time is getting closer to hand in the petitions to unlock locked in pensions Bill 116 . We would like them sent in by April 10th .
If you haven't downloaded a petition yet . It can be downloaded at Ted Chudleigh's web site .
www.tedchudleigh.com/petitions
Please don't procrastinate and think the next person will do it . If everybody takes that attitude , We are then dead in the water .If we want these pensions unlocked we have to show that there are a great number of people behind unlocking.Have your family , children (( There is no age restriction )), friends , neighbors and whoever sign .
Please also pass this on to any contacts you have and also ask for their help .
We Can Do This !!!
The Petitions can be mailed to . Ted Chudleigh , Room 450 Legislative Building , Queen's Park , Toronto , Ontario , M7A 1A8
Or you can mail to me and I will bundle them up and send them on .Bill Costello , 6 Chub Lake Road , Box 56 , Atikokan Ontario , p0t 1c0
With the economie the way it is there are more and more people everyday that are ending up in locked in pensions .
If these pensions were unlocked it just may help some people bridge their way into retirement instead of having to rely on social assistance .
Thank You and Take Care , Bill Costello , The Ontario Coalition of Independent LIF Holders
Monday, March 16, 2009
A Statement by MPP Ernie Hardeman ( Oxford )
Hi Everybody ;
Here is a statement from Mr.Ernie Hardeman (Oxford ) that was read in the Legislature today .
As Mr Hardeman says . "In the budget on March 26, the McGuinty government has an opportunity to do the right thing and ensure that people who worked hard for their money have access to it when they need it."
I wont hold my breath as we have been asking them to unlock these pensions for the Seniors and Retire's of Ontario for the past 5 years . It appears that the Liberal Party is not concerned with the struggles of their seniors and those close to retirement wanting to bridge the gap to 65 when they lose their jobs in troubled times .
It seems that the McGuinty Liberals are only concerned about them selves and to hell with the older population.
As I have said in the previous letter we owe the Conservative Party a Thanks for taking up this issue of unlocking locked in pensions 100% for the 55 plus in Ontario .
Please pass this on to your contacts and also the previous letter .
Take Care , Regards Bill C
Mr. Ernie Hardeman (Oxford):
Imagine being a senior who is struggling to make ends meet, and being told by the government that even though you have money, you can’t use it. Imagine needing to repair your house or buy a new car, and being told by the government that you can’t spend your own money to do it.
That’s the situation that many seniors across the province are facing. They are owners of life income funds or locked-in retirement income funds. Both of these types of accounts severely restrict the amount of money that can be withdrawn. In fact, to access the account because of severe financial hardship, you have to apply and actually pay an application fee to try to get access to your own money.
Unlocking these pensions is a simple step the government can take to give people the flexibility they need to manage their own finances. Other provinces already allow significantly more flexibility on when people can withdraw money from these funds. Saskatchewan allows 100% to be withdrawn any time after the age of 55.
Like these other provinces, Ontario should recognize the importance of giving people access to their own money, and allow seniors to withdraw 100% of their life income funds or locked-in retirement income funds. These people worked hard to save for old age. Now that it has arrived, they should be entitled to access these savings.
This change wouldn’t cost the government anything. In fact, people who are finally making much-needed purchases will help the economy.
In the budget on March 26, the McGuinty government has an opportunity to do the right thing and ensure that people who worked hard for their money have access to it when they need it.
Here is a statement from Mr.Ernie Hardeman (Oxford ) that was read in the Legislature today .
As Mr Hardeman says . "In the budget on March 26, the McGuinty government has an opportunity to do the right thing and ensure that people who worked hard for their money have access to it when they need it."
I wont hold my breath as we have been asking them to unlock these pensions for the Seniors and Retire's of Ontario for the past 5 years . It appears that the Liberal Party is not concerned with the struggles of their seniors and those close to retirement wanting to bridge the gap to 65 when they lose their jobs in troubled times .
It seems that the McGuinty Liberals are only concerned about them selves and to hell with the older population.
As I have said in the previous letter we owe the Conservative Party a Thanks for taking up this issue of unlocking locked in pensions 100% for the 55 plus in Ontario .
Please pass this on to your contacts and also the previous letter .
Take Care , Regards Bill C
Mr. Ernie Hardeman (Oxford):
Imagine being a senior who is struggling to make ends meet, and being told by the government that even though you have money, you can’t use it. Imagine needing to repair your house or buy a new car, and being told by the government that you can’t spend your own money to do it.
That’s the situation that many seniors across the province are facing. They are owners of life income funds or locked-in retirement income funds. Both of these types of accounts severely restrict the amount of money that can be withdrawn. In fact, to access the account because of severe financial hardship, you have to apply and actually pay an application fee to try to get access to your own money.
Unlocking these pensions is a simple step the government can take to give people the flexibility they need to manage their own finances. Other provinces already allow significantly more flexibility on when people can withdraw money from these funds. Saskatchewan allows 100% to be withdrawn any time after the age of 55.
Like these other provinces, Ontario should recognize the importance of giving people access to their own money, and allow seniors to withdraw 100% of their life income funds or locked-in retirement income funds. These people worked hard to save for old age. Now that it has arrived, they should be entitled to access these savings.
This change wouldn’t cost the government anything. In fact, people who are finally making much-needed purchases will help the economy.
In the budget on March 26, the McGuinty government has an opportunity to do the right thing and ensure that people who worked hard for their money have access to it when they need it.
Friday, March 13, 2009
MPP Frank Klees Requesting LIF's be Unlocked
Hi Everybody ;
Here is a transcript of the discussion between Mr. Frank Klees ( Newmarket - Aurora PC Party ) and Hon. Minister Aileen Carroll . ( Minister Responsible for Seniors ) .
I question the title Hon. , but then that is just my opinion.
The first time I sent a letter to Ms. Carroll concerning the issue with locked in pensions . She was so kind to let me know that I was not in her constituency . I then wrote her another letter asking her if she was the Minister Responsible for Seniors , If so , was she not supposed to be responsible for all seniors in Ontario and again asked her to help correct the unjustness of locked in pensions .
I received no response . I am also aware of others of you that had the same problem with this minister when asking for her help in unlocking locked in pensions .
After reading her answer to Mr Klees even after he asked her the same question twice . This is what she came up with "I have not had an opportunity to speak to the Minister of Finance at the federal level; I leave that to my colleague in cabinet to do so. "
It is very obvious that the letters that were sent to her concerning locked in pensions were thrown in the garbage , She obviously never even looked at the issue .
If she had she would have known that there are a few hundred thousand Senior Retire's in Ontario that have locked in pensions under Ontario Provincial Rule . NOT Federal Rule ,
Just plain incompetent and she is being paid by us the tax payer to represent Seniors in Government .
If any of you would like to drop a letter to Minister Carroll and let her know that we are taking notes . Please feel free to do so .
Below is the Transcript and I think we owe the Progressive Conservative Party a big thanks for taking this issue on .
You all Take Care Bill C
Senior citizens
Mr. Frank Klees: To the Minister Responsible for Seniors: Seniors across the province are not immune to the economic downturn. They’ve worked hard to put aside funds in a retirement account and they’re counting on that income to pay their day-to-day living expenses.
Many of those retirement accounts are eroded. The income from those retirement accounts is considerably less than it has been. My question is this: Has the Minister Responsible for Seniors advocated with the Minister of Finance to allow seniors in this province to have access to 100% of their locked-in retirement accounts, and if not, why not?
Hon. M. Aileen Carroll: I can assure the honourable member that, the Seniors’ Secretariat being part of my portfolio, I am cognizant of the pressures of this economy on seniors in Ontario. I take every opportunity to convey to the Minister of Finance my concerns on issues such as elder abuse, and the fiscal impact as well. The property tax initiative, of course, was a response to that very dilemma, and it was done by this government in advance of the current economic malaise that we are now dealing with.
Be assured, honourable member, that I will continue to advocate on their behalf to the best of my ability.
The Speaker (Hon. Steve Peters): Supplementary?
Mr. Frank Klees: My question was very specific. Seniors from across the province are asking for the right to their own money. This is money that seniors have put aside through their hard work for the day that we now have, and that is when they are in need. This is their money. Under current legislation, they cannot access their own retirement funds. It will take an act of this Legislature to open up those locked-in retirement accounts.
I’d like to know from the minister, has she specifically made the request of the minister to include that measure in the next budget, and if she hasn’t, will she commit today that that will in fact be her request of the Minister of Finance on behalf of seniors across the province?
Hon. M. Aileen Carroll: As I assured the honourable member, I have and continue to convey my concerns and those of seniors in Ontario to the Minister of Finance. As the honourable member knows, we took measures to allow seniors more access in the budget of 2007. Unfortunately, the honourable member chose to vote against it.
There are indeed a number of aspects of this particular dilemma that belong in the federal domain. I have not had an opportunity to speak to the Minister of Finance at the federal level; I leave that to my colleague in cabinet to do so. But I can only assure the House and the member that many of the initiatives that we have taken are assisting these seniors in these turbulent times. I would look for his support when we bring in a very, very excellent budget in a couple of weeks’ time.
Here is a transcript of the discussion between Mr. Frank Klees ( Newmarket - Aurora PC Party ) and Hon. Minister Aileen Carroll . ( Minister Responsible for Seniors ) .
I question the title Hon. , but then that is just my opinion.
The first time I sent a letter to Ms. Carroll concerning the issue with locked in pensions . She was so kind to let me know that I was not in her constituency . I then wrote her another letter asking her if she was the Minister Responsible for Seniors , If so , was she not supposed to be responsible for all seniors in Ontario and again asked her to help correct the unjustness of locked in pensions .
I received no response . I am also aware of others of you that had the same problem with this minister when asking for her help in unlocking locked in pensions .
After reading her answer to Mr Klees even after he asked her the same question twice . This is what she came up with "I have not had an opportunity to speak to the Minister of Finance at the federal level; I leave that to my colleague in cabinet to do so. "
It is very obvious that the letters that were sent to her concerning locked in pensions were thrown in the garbage , She obviously never even looked at the issue .
If she had she would have known that there are a few hundred thousand Senior Retire's in Ontario that have locked in pensions under Ontario Provincial Rule . NOT Federal Rule ,
Just plain incompetent and she is being paid by us the tax payer to represent Seniors in Government .
If any of you would like to drop a letter to Minister Carroll and let her know that we are taking notes . Please feel free to do so .
Below is the Transcript and I think we owe the Progressive Conservative Party a big thanks for taking this issue on .
You all Take Care Bill C
Senior citizens
Mr. Frank Klees: To the Minister Responsible for Seniors: Seniors across the province are not immune to the economic downturn. They’ve worked hard to put aside funds in a retirement account and they’re counting on that income to pay their day-to-day living expenses.
Many of those retirement accounts are eroded. The income from those retirement accounts is considerably less than it has been. My question is this: Has the Minister Responsible for Seniors advocated with the Minister of Finance to allow seniors in this province to have access to 100% of their locked-in retirement accounts, and if not, why not?
Hon. M. Aileen Carroll: I can assure the honourable member that, the Seniors’ Secretariat being part of my portfolio, I am cognizant of the pressures of this economy on seniors in Ontario. I take every opportunity to convey to the Minister of Finance my concerns on issues such as elder abuse, and the fiscal impact as well. The property tax initiative, of course, was a response to that very dilemma, and it was done by this government in advance of the current economic malaise that we are now dealing with.
Be assured, honourable member, that I will continue to advocate on their behalf to the best of my ability.
The Speaker (Hon. Steve Peters): Supplementary?
Mr. Frank Klees: My question was very specific. Seniors from across the province are asking for the right to their own money. This is money that seniors have put aside through their hard work for the day that we now have, and that is when they are in need. This is their money. Under current legislation, they cannot access their own retirement funds. It will take an act of this Legislature to open up those locked-in retirement accounts.
I’d like to know from the minister, has she specifically made the request of the minister to include that measure in the next budget, and if she hasn’t, will she commit today that that will in fact be her request of the Minister of Finance on behalf of seniors across the province?
Hon. M. Aileen Carroll: As I assured the honourable member, I have and continue to convey my concerns and those of seniors in Ontario to the Minister of Finance. As the honourable member knows, we took measures to allow seniors more access in the budget of 2007. Unfortunately, the honourable member chose to vote against it.
There are indeed a number of aspects of this particular dilemma that belong in the federal domain. I have not had an opportunity to speak to the Minister of Finance at the federal level; I leave that to my colleague in cabinet to do so. But I can only assure the House and the member that many of the initiatives that we have taken are assisting these seniors in these turbulent times. I would look for his support when we bring in a very, very excellent budget in a couple of weeks’ time.
Thursday, February 26, 2009
A Letter of Response concerning differences about Unlocking Pensions
Hi Everybody ;
This is a letter that Grant wrote to various people in Local Government when they become offended because Ken was sending them information on Bill 27 . I will not be naming names of the ones that that seem to think this is a frivolus issue , but to be sure I will be holding those names and answers in my e-mail folder .
Good Afternoon,
This is in response to ALL those who've responded to Ken Elliott and
Philip James, and a personal perspective from all sides of this issue.
Neither of these gentlemen have stated mistruths. The HANSARD quotes
are very accurate and truthful.
Sure, some, not all, are offended that anyone out there could/would
have the audacity to question our supposedly "highly esteemed",
"sometimes righteous", "honourable politicians". How dare any one of
the generally disconnected public even conceive a notion to penetrate
the protected inner-circle of politics - regional, provincial or
federal.
Mr. Elliot has simply regurgitated the words of it's provincial
legislators. I know it's disturbing. I too would be disgusted having
someone rub my nose in it, especially if I knew I had something to do
with the injustice of Bill 27.
Come-on everyone - have you not taken the time to read the statements
of your fellow politicians own words in the HANSARD!
These are not Mr. Elliott's words - they belong to politicians - yes,
some of the very politicians that some of you are voraciously
defending. Do you think ALL of the electorate do not pay attention?
As far as I can see, following the recent email train, Mr. Elliot has
also included regional officials as a matter of courtesy so that they
too can be aware of their constituents issues pertaining to provincial
restrictions on the very source of their well-being and financial
livelihood.
Why is their such disdain for truthful information and the reality of
locked-in pensions and the financial hardships it continues to wreak on
all Ontario locked-in pensioners?
I think Mr. Elliott's inclusion of regional leaders to the locked-in
pension issue is very valid and is certainly not "frivolous" at all.
Any municipal leader should welcome this information so that they may
better understand the "other issues" affecting their residents.
Perhaps, some leaders may even have the courage to stand up to their
provincial relatives and demand EQUALITY for their citizens, once
informed about the restrictive nature of those pensioners with
locked-in pensions and their ability, or lack there-of, to meet their
municipal financial obligations while putting food on their tables and
keeping their lights and heat on.
This is NOT A PERSONAL WITCH HUNT.
IT IS A QUEST for TRUE DEMOCRACY, EQUALITY and FAIRNESS for all
ONTARIANS - ALL ONTARIANS - NOT JUST THE SELF-PRIVILEGED!!
So turning it into a personal issue detracts from the real intent of
the message.
This battle started out the day after Dec 22, 1999 with the selfish
inclusion of an exclusive amendment to the MPP's Pension Act, granting
them and them ONLY, full 100% access to their locked-in pensions while
leaving the rest of ALL Ontarians with similar wound-up pensions on the
outside with no such privilege!
I personally have spoken to a previous individual, who along with
others in his group, back in 2000, attempted to bring the inequality
issue of locked-in pensions to their provincial rulers - all to no
avail - big surprise. He informed me, not unlike those of us today, he
too was stonewalled at every turn.
He was typically met with the all too often and convenient "blame
game", silent treatment, ignored emails, canned responses, endless
shell game referrals etc. - you all know what I mean.
So some of you who've come out against Ken Elliott's approach to bring
out the truth about the selfish exclusion of millions of Ontarians,
courtesy of Bill 27, and appeal to the common decency of "those
responsible" or "those who can affect change", I ask the following
questions;
1) How many years does it take to include ALL Ontarians and correct a
government implemented injustice?
2) How many more locked-in pensioners have to "LIVE BROKE - DIE RICH"?
3) How many more discussions, round tables, inquiries, panels,
commissions to investigate?
4) How many more political leaders will continue to stand down, "stay
out of it" and turn the other way?
5) How many more recognized economics experts, such as Jack Mintz,
Malcolm Hamilton, Gord Pape, numerous seniors organizations such as
CARP need to heard from before we do what's right?
6) What is the "polite" and "political way" to democracy? Ten years
using that approach have come and gone and we still have unequal
locked-in pension legislation.
And finally - to all those who are critical of Mr. Elliott's method
using email to inform people of the real hidden truth of Bill 27 as
being too drastic, hostile, impolite, rude, frivolous, vexatious etc.,
and since I've yet to read anyone openly challenge the Hansard and it's
contents relating to the exchanges of politicians regarding the "double
standard"- DM 1999, and injustice of two separate laws for the same
locked-in pensions, I welcome hearing the so-called proper detailed
approach to correcting the injustice so that we can finally put an end
to the collective silence and make ONTARIO an "equal" and "fair"
province for ALL it's residents and not just the clever.
For those of you who believe that all Ontarians should be treated
equally in terms of locked-in pensions, and who possess leadership
qualities and the knowledge to affect change, step forward and guide
the way for those less politically savvy and connected and rally behind
the cause to unlock pensions for ALL Ontarians. You too, are welcome to
rally to the aid of your residents.
Or, the choice can be to simply choose to continue to ignore it all, as
those in power have demonstrated for the past ten years, point the
finger to someone else as "not my problem - problem solved", detract
from, attack the writers style, and ignore the content of the problem
as evidenced by some of the responses I've seen.
Perhaps if some were on the other side of the equation, they might not
be so dismissive and more forthright in offering support to the very
residents with locked-in pensions, they serve.
... and we all wonder why no one votes any more.
Grant Fleury
Sudbury, Ontario
This is a letter that Grant wrote to various people in Local Government when they become offended because Ken was sending them information on Bill 27 . I will not be naming names of the ones that that seem to think this is a frivolus issue , but to be sure I will be holding those names and answers in my e-mail folder .
Good Afternoon,
This is in response to ALL those who've responded to Ken Elliott and
Philip James, and a personal perspective from all sides of this issue.
Neither of these gentlemen have stated mistruths. The HANSARD quotes
are very accurate and truthful.
Sure, some, not all, are offended that anyone out there could/would
have the audacity to question our supposedly "highly esteemed",
"sometimes righteous", "honourable politicians". How dare any one of
the generally disconnected public even conceive a notion to penetrate
the protected inner-circle of politics - regional, provincial or
federal.
Mr. Elliot has simply regurgitated the words of it's provincial
legislators. I know it's disturbing. I too would be disgusted having
someone rub my nose in it, especially if I knew I had something to do
with the injustice of Bill 27.
Come-on everyone - have you not taken the time to read the statements
of your fellow politicians own words in the HANSARD!
These are not Mr. Elliott's words - they belong to politicians - yes,
some of the very politicians that some of you are voraciously
defending. Do you think ALL of the electorate do not pay attention?
As far as I can see, following the recent email train, Mr. Elliot has
also included regional officials as a matter of courtesy so that they
too can be aware of their constituents issues pertaining to provincial
restrictions on the very source of their well-being and financial
livelihood.
Why is their such disdain for truthful information and the reality of
locked-in pensions and the financial hardships it continues to wreak on
all Ontario locked-in pensioners?
I think Mr. Elliott's inclusion of regional leaders to the locked-in
pension issue is very valid and is certainly not "frivolous" at all.
Any municipal leader should welcome this information so that they may
better understand the "other issues" affecting their residents.
Perhaps, some leaders may even have the courage to stand up to their
provincial relatives and demand EQUALITY for their citizens, once
informed about the restrictive nature of those pensioners with
locked-in pensions and their ability, or lack there-of, to meet their
municipal financial obligations while putting food on their tables and
keeping their lights and heat on.
This is NOT A PERSONAL WITCH HUNT.
IT IS A QUEST for TRUE DEMOCRACY, EQUALITY and FAIRNESS for all
ONTARIANS - ALL ONTARIANS - NOT JUST THE SELF-PRIVILEGED!!
So turning it into a personal issue detracts from the real intent of
the message.
This battle started out the day after Dec 22, 1999 with the selfish
inclusion of an exclusive amendment to the MPP's Pension Act, granting
them and them ONLY, full 100% access to their locked-in pensions while
leaving the rest of ALL Ontarians with similar wound-up pensions on the
outside with no such privilege!
I personally have spoken to a previous individual, who along with
others in his group, back in 2000, attempted to bring the inequality
issue of locked-in pensions to their provincial rulers - all to no
avail - big surprise. He informed me, not unlike those of us today, he
too was stonewalled at every turn.
He was typically met with the all too often and convenient "blame
game", silent treatment, ignored emails, canned responses, endless
shell game referrals etc. - you all know what I mean.
So some of you who've come out against Ken Elliott's approach to bring
out the truth about the selfish exclusion of millions of Ontarians,
courtesy of Bill 27, and appeal to the common decency of "those
responsible" or "those who can affect change", I ask the following
questions;
1) How many years does it take to include ALL Ontarians and correct a
government implemented injustice?
2) How many more locked-in pensioners have to "LIVE BROKE - DIE RICH"?
3) How many more discussions, round tables, inquiries, panels,
commissions to investigate?
4) How many more political leaders will continue to stand down, "stay
out of it" and turn the other way?
5) How many more recognized economics experts, such as Jack Mintz,
Malcolm Hamilton, Gord Pape, numerous seniors organizations such as
CARP need to heard from before we do what's right?
6) What is the "polite" and "political way" to democracy? Ten years
using that approach have come and gone and we still have unequal
locked-in pension legislation.
And finally - to all those who are critical of Mr. Elliott's method
using email to inform people of the real hidden truth of Bill 27 as
being too drastic, hostile, impolite, rude, frivolous, vexatious etc.,
and since I've yet to read anyone openly challenge the Hansard and it's
contents relating to the exchanges of politicians regarding the "double
standard"- DM 1999, and injustice of two separate laws for the same
locked-in pensions, I welcome hearing the so-called proper detailed
approach to correcting the injustice so that we can finally put an end
to the collective silence and make ONTARIO an "equal" and "fair"
province for ALL it's residents and not just the clever.
For those of you who believe that all Ontarians should be treated
equally in terms of locked-in pensions, and who possess leadership
qualities and the knowledge to affect change, step forward and guide
the way for those less politically savvy and connected and rally behind
the cause to unlock pensions for ALL Ontarians. You too, are welcome to
rally to the aid of your residents.
Or, the choice can be to simply choose to continue to ignore it all, as
those in power have demonstrated for the past ten years, point the
finger to someone else as "not my problem - problem solved", detract
from, attack the writers style, and ignore the content of the problem
as evidenced by some of the responses I've seen.
Perhaps if some were on the other side of the equation, they might not
be so dismissive and more forthright in offering support to the very
residents with locked-in pensions, they serve.
... and we all wonder why no one votes any more.
Grant Fleury
Sudbury, Ontario
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
Open letter to the Ontario Finance Minister
This is a letter I have sent to news papers across Ontario . Weather they print it or not is another story . Bill C
Dear Editor ;
My name is Bill Costello and I am with the Coalition of The Independent LIF ( locked in fund ) Holders.
We have for a number of years been requesting the government or Ontario to unlock these funds .
Now with the faltering economy it is more important then ever yet the government ignores the pleas of thousands of concerned fund holders .The government does not want to answer this simple question and this is why I am requesting of you to print this open letter.
Also any help from your paper with having the restriction lifted on these funds would be appreciated .
Unlocking these funds ( Locked in Retirement accounts ) is now not only a concern of the account holder ,but should be the concern of any Ontario Citizen as there are Millions of dollars in these accounts and if unlocked I am sure some of it would be spent and benefit the Ontario Economy .
Thank You , Regards Bill Costello , Box 56 , Atikokan Ontario
The Hon,.Dwight Duncan February 15 , 2009
Dear Finance Minister ;
First off I would like to inform you that I will also be mailing this letter out to news papers across Ontario as a open letter.
The reason for that being that I have asked the question numerous times " why will the Liberal Party of Ontario not unlock locked in pensions ( LIRA , LIRF , LIF ) 100% for retires 55 years of age and older in Ontario " . I have never received a answer to that Question even though I have asked the question of the Hon. Premier and the Hon. Finance Minister many a time .
The only answer I have received of late is that the Liberal government has unlocked 25% and are not prepared to go any further at this time .
I am sorry to say that does not answer the question. As a Taxpayer of Ontario I have a right to know why the Liberal Party will not unlock these funds .
Unlocking would be a big benefit to the Ontario economy . If seniors had access to their locked in accounts they may retire early . Therefor making room for the younger generation to have jobs . This would mean making room for family's that are on welfare because there are not enough jobs available .
It would also help seniors that have lost their jobs and are close to retirement . They may have enough money in their fund if it wasn't locked in to hold them over until 65 , but with the fund locked they have to go on welfare instead .
I know there are some that say if the seniors are given their money they might spend it and become wards of the government when they reach retirement age.
I am no financial wizard but when one reaches 65 they receive OAS, medical drugs , and CPP if they qualify . Yes some may require GIS but don't you think that is a lot cheaper than making them stay in the workforce and causing a young couple to go on welfare or making them go on welfare because the jobs are not available .
Not all fund holders are going to go out and blow all the money they saved for retirement all their lives . Some however may buy a new car or a house with some of their funds . This would be a boost for the Ontario economy . Best of all this is not bail out money . This is the peoples own personal savings .
I could go on and on how unlocking these funds can boost the economy with no cost to the Ontario government ,start up small business, buy furniture , etc , but I am sure you realizes all that .
People with regular unlocked RRSP's have 100% access to their funds so why should Thousands of Defined Contribution Contributors and the Thousand of Defined Benefit Contributors that never put in their required number of years and ended up in a locked in fund because of company cutbacks , Company closures etc. Not be entitled to the same financial freedom as RRSP holders .
From what I have been told there is anywhere from 300,000 to 350,000 locked in fund holders in Ontario and growing by the day .Nobody seems to actually know the real number , Wouldn't releasing these funds to the rightfully owners give a large boost to the Ontario economy ?
In closing Hon Finance Minister . Please tell me and thousand's of other locked in fund holders .
(( Why will the Liberal Government Of Ontario not unlock these funds 100% ?? ))
After All this would not be a first .
The province of Saskatchewan unlocked these funds for there citizens 7 years ago in 2002 with no bad results recorded after releasing the peoples own deferred wages to themselves .
Please Sir . Give me a direct answer .
I give Permission for this Letter to be used in any News Paper , TV Station , Radio in Ontario
Thank You , Bill Costello , The Ontario Coalition of Independent LIF holders ,
Box 56 , Atikokan , Ontario , P0t 1c0 ,
Dear Editor ;
My name is Bill Costello and I am with the Coalition of The Independent LIF ( locked in fund ) Holders.
We have for a number of years been requesting the government or Ontario to unlock these funds .
Now with the faltering economy it is more important then ever yet the government ignores the pleas of thousands of concerned fund holders .The government does not want to answer this simple question and this is why I am requesting of you to print this open letter.
Also any help from your paper with having the restriction lifted on these funds would be appreciated .
Unlocking these funds ( Locked in Retirement accounts ) is now not only a concern of the account holder ,but should be the concern of any Ontario Citizen as there are Millions of dollars in these accounts and if unlocked I am sure some of it would be spent and benefit the Ontario Economy .
Thank You , Regards Bill Costello , Box 56 , Atikokan Ontario
The Hon,.Dwight Duncan February 15 , 2009
Dear Finance Minister ;
First off I would like to inform you that I will also be mailing this letter out to news papers across Ontario as a open letter.
The reason for that being that I have asked the question numerous times " why will the Liberal Party of Ontario not unlock locked in pensions ( LIRA , LIRF , LIF ) 100% for retires 55 years of age and older in Ontario " . I have never received a answer to that Question even though I have asked the question of the Hon. Premier and the Hon. Finance Minister many a time .
The only answer I have received of late is that the Liberal government has unlocked 25% and are not prepared to go any further at this time .
I am sorry to say that does not answer the question. As a Taxpayer of Ontario I have a right to know why the Liberal Party will not unlock these funds .
Unlocking would be a big benefit to the Ontario economy . If seniors had access to their locked in accounts they may retire early . Therefor making room for the younger generation to have jobs . This would mean making room for family's that are on welfare because there are not enough jobs available .
It would also help seniors that have lost their jobs and are close to retirement . They may have enough money in their fund if it wasn't locked in to hold them over until 65 , but with the fund locked they have to go on welfare instead .
I know there are some that say if the seniors are given their money they might spend it and become wards of the government when they reach retirement age.
I am no financial wizard but when one reaches 65 they receive OAS, medical drugs , and CPP if they qualify . Yes some may require GIS but don't you think that is a lot cheaper than making them stay in the workforce and causing a young couple to go on welfare or making them go on welfare because the jobs are not available .
Not all fund holders are going to go out and blow all the money they saved for retirement all their lives . Some however may buy a new car or a house with some of their funds . This would be a boost for the Ontario economy . Best of all this is not bail out money . This is the peoples own personal savings .
I could go on and on how unlocking these funds can boost the economy with no cost to the Ontario government ,start up small business, buy furniture , etc , but I am sure you realizes all that .
People with regular unlocked RRSP's have 100% access to their funds so why should Thousands of Defined Contribution Contributors and the Thousand of Defined Benefit Contributors that never put in their required number of years and ended up in a locked in fund because of company cutbacks , Company closures etc. Not be entitled to the same financial freedom as RRSP holders .
From what I have been told there is anywhere from 300,000 to 350,000 locked in fund holders in Ontario and growing by the day .Nobody seems to actually know the real number , Wouldn't releasing these funds to the rightfully owners give a large boost to the Ontario economy ?
In closing Hon Finance Minister . Please tell me and thousand's of other locked in fund holders .
(( Why will the Liberal Government Of Ontario not unlock these funds 100% ?? ))
After All this would not be a first .
The province of Saskatchewan unlocked these funds for there citizens 7 years ago in 2002 with no bad results recorded after releasing the peoples own deferred wages to themselves .
Please Sir . Give me a direct answer .
I give Permission for this Letter to be used in any News Paper , TV Station , Radio in Ontario
Thank You , Bill Costello , The Ontario Coalition of Independent LIF holders ,
Box 56 , Atikokan , Ontario , P0t 1c0 ,
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