agm18-minutes · web viewgerry tiede shared that the work of the pension committee this year...

Association canadienne des enseignantes et des enseignants retraitésCanadian Association of Retired Teachers

Can

adia

n A

ssoc

iatio

n of

R

etire

d Te

ache

rsMinutes of the 2019

Annual General Meeting

Held at the Canadian Teachers’ FederationOttawa, Ontario

June 7-8, 2019

of 20


TABLE OF CONTENTS

Adoption of Agenda ....................................................................................................... 4Adoption of 2018 AGM Minutes..................................................................................... 4Business Arising from AGM 2018 ................................................................................. 5Call for Nominations ...................................................................................................... 6Correspondence ............................................................................................................ 6Elections ........................................................................................................................ 16Financial Reports/Budget............................................................................................... 6/18Greetings from the Canadian Teachers’ Federation ..................................................... 3Introduction and Greetings ............................................................................................ 3Motions from Executive ................................................................................................. 16Motions from Member Associations .............................................................................. 16-17Priorities for 2019–2020 ................................................................................................ 17-18Reports from Chairs of Committees .............................................................................. 8-10Reports from Executive ................................................................................................. 7Reports from Member Associations .............................................................................. 10-13Timed Session:

Minister of Seniors - Honourable Filomena Tassi ............................................. 3Canadian Medical Association - OwenAdams................................................... 7Johnson’s Inc. – Richard Harrison/Robert Dowden........................................... 14-15

APPENDIXAGM Participants................................................................................................. A/20

NOTE: These minutes reflect the business of the meeting only. They do not reflect what was said, except in special circumstances, or where required to support motions.

of 20


Friday, June 7, 2019

1. Welcome/Call to Order

President, Bill Berryman called the meeting to order and welcomed delegates and observers to the 28th ACER-CART Annual General Meeting (AGM) held at the Canadian Teachers’ Federation office building, Ottawa.a) Members were introduced b) Regrets – John Green and Ken Nashc) Provided details related to changes to the days agendad) Reminder that only the directors can move and second motionse) The President expressed his appreciation to CTF-FCE and Johnson’s Inc. for their

continued support of ACER-CART. He then welcomed CTF-FCE Deputy Secretary General, Sylvain Cléroux.

2. Greetings/Guest Speaker

a) Canadian Teachers’ Federation (CTF) President H. Mark Ramsankar Mark Ramsankar thanked all in attendance for the continued support and

dedication to education. As Mark marks his upcoming retirement, he plans to continue representing educators.

Brian Berryman thanked Mark Ramsankar for the hospitality provided and confirmed that ACER-CART will continue to support educators into the future.

Rich Prophet RTO/ERO invited Mark Ramsankar to share any current issues with ACER-CART.

Mark Ramsankar invited ACER-CART to submit any questions to him for follow up at a later time.

b) The Honourable Minister FilomenaTassi - Minister of Seniors The Honourable Minister Tassi, thanked the assembly for the invitation and

shared the important work of teachers and the impact they have on students. She has travelled across the country to speak with seniors about their needs and

concerns. CPP will now have an automatic enrolment at the age of 70 for anyone who has

not applied. Pension security is important to retirees and the government had over 4,000

responses to a consultation. The result included the addition of measures to allow courts to hold bonuses to senior officials when those will affect pension income for employees affected by a company’s insolvency.

$150,000 has been set aside to look at pension security. National Seniors Strategy is now going before the National Seniors Council. Pharmacare is being addressed and the Hoskin report will be taken into

consideration. The report is anticipated to be out in the next few weeks. Budget 2019 will include $50,000,000 toward the national dementia strategy. Ensuring that seniors are not isolated is of importance to the Federal

Government and communities are being given $25,000 to support seniors. Applications are available from $5,000 to the $25,000 threshold based on need. These funds can be used for infrastructure changes and the deadline is June 21, 2019.

2019 budget will see an increase of $100,000,000 over five years to support seniors.

of 20


QUESTIONS1) Rich Prophet, RTO/ERO – There are gaps in benefits received – Ontario

Government will not use funds for seniors who travel outside of Canada. Signed agreements with the provinces do describe how the money

can/should be used. However, the Federal government cannot step in and manage the transfer payments.

Infrastructure investments do put pressure on provinces to ensure that the money is spent on the purpose that it was intended.

2) Catherine Snow – Can everyone see job postings? Was not aware of any limitations and will look into the matter.

3) Bill Berryman – What are the implications of taking advantage of the care giver allowance and how will that affect GIS? All governments will work toward ensuring that seniors are not affected

negatively when they opt to take advantage of the care giver allowance.

DISCUSSION following Minister’s speech: Margaret Urquhart – suggested that ACER-CART gather questions and

bring those to Bill Berryman or Roger Régimbal for distribution to the Minister’s office.

Gordon Cummings – Shared that completing the application is autocratic and if the government offers a workshop on completing forms that members are encouraged to take advantage of those.

Margaret Prendergast – Indicated that the Horizon grant requires a “not for profit” charitable number and most organizations do not have one.

Wayne Spires – How many people know that the Horizon grant is available? It is not easy for seniors to find out about grants such as this one or others and for many they are not computer literate which is another barrier.

3. Adoption of Agenda - (AGM 19-T2-001)

Moved by Jan Langelier QPARSE, seconded by Alyson Hillier Retired Teachers Organization of NSTU

THAT the agenda be adopted as presented – CARRIED

4. Adoption of the 2018 AGM Minutes - (AGM19-T3-001)

Moved by Jan Langelier QPARSE, seconded by Cynthia MacDonald PEIRTA

THAT the minutes of the 2018 ACER-CART AGM held June 2 and 3, 2018 be approved as amended – CARRIED

5. Business Arising from the minutes of the 2017 AGM - (Tab 4)

a) Motion Tracker – AGM19-T4-001i. A copy of the motion tracker from the 2018 AGM resolutions was distributed to

participants. All motions have been dealt with.

b) Protocol 8 – AGM19-T4-002i. Executive Resolution E-1 2019 - Protocol 8 –guidelines were approved in

principle at the 8 September 2018 meeting.

of 20


Dale Lauber BCRT noted that the last part of the phrase “focuses within the provincial or territorial jurisdiction” – there are a number of groups that have branches in other provinces.

Jan Langelier QPARSE noted that benefits are not provided in Quebec and suggested a change to add the word “/or” benefits.

Martha Foster RTO/ERO noted that the addition of the word “/or” appears to be changing our philosophy. Working together and sharing is not the same and some clarity is needed.

Roger Régimbal indicated that when the protocol was developed, the intent was to represent all of the organizations and the addition of “/or” would provide this.

Jan Langelier QPARSE noted that each organization has this as its main strategy and that is the focus, it cannot be misunderstood. It should not be an actual directive – add the word “/or” - Chair accepts as friendly amendment – no opposition

Leonard Légère pointed out that in 7. – offering free is not mentioned in the French translation - Roger Régimbal – Friendly amendment noted – Chair accepts as friendly amendment – no opposition

Moved by Martin Higgs RRO and seconded by Marie LeBlanc-Warick SERFNB

THAT friendly amendments be adopted - CARRIED

c) Brian Day Court Case – AGM19-T4-003i. It is proposed that ACER-CART donate $500 to the BC Health Coalition in

their role as intervenors in the Dr. Brian Day Court Case.

ii. RATIONAL: Whereas ACER-CART mount opposition to the privatization of medical services in Canada as an expressed threat to public Medicare in Canada.

Moved by Gerry Tiede Vice-President and seconded by Dale Lauber BCRTA

THAT $500.00 be donated to the Brian Day Court Case - CARRIED

d) JoAnn Lauber, Special Advisor – Seniors Voicei. Collaboration of 1 million seniors

Added request to mark October 1st as the day of older seniors Seniors voice is a reminder to engage in formally recognizing seniors Martha Foster, RTO/ERO shared that they have initiated a seniors day that

included a full day in the legislature where they had the opportunity to share information,

Jim Grieves, RTO/ERO shared that the UN Declaration of recognition of senior’s day is significant but we need to appreciate that every day should be senior’s day. Issues are not just a single day issue and ACER-CART represents 2-3 million voters and our advocacy will continue in all provinces and territories.

Moved by Margaret Urquhart (RRE), seconded by Dale Lauber BCRTA

THAT given that 2019 is a federal election year, ACER-CART revisit affiliation with senior’s voice at the 2020 AGM - CARRIED

of 20


6. Correspondence - (AGM19-T4-003)

Copy of a summary table of all correspondences since the 2018 AGM was distributed to participants. The correspondence binder was circulated at the AGM for participants to review.

7. Call for nominations (timed item – 9:30) (AGM19-T10-008)

a) Nominations were received for each position as follows: President Vice-PresidentBill Berryman RTO-NSTU Gerry Tiede BCRTA

Regional Representative–East Regional Representative–WestMargaret Urquhart NBSRT Marilyn Bossert ARTA

Regional Representative–OntarioMartin Higgs RTO/ERO

8. Financial Reports/Budget

a) 2017-18 Final financial report (AGM19-T6-001)i. Roger Régimbal shared that the budget is in good standing and provided copy

of balance sheet – no questions

Moved by Marie LeBlanc-Warick STS and seconded by Alyson Hillier RTO-NSTU

THAT the Budget 2017-2018 unaudited balance sheet be received as presented – CARRIED

b) 2018-19 Financial report (AGM19-T6-002)ii. Roger Régimbal presented the 2018-2019 financial report dated May 31, 2019

– no questions

Moved by June MacNairn NBSRT and seconded by Margaret Prendergast RTAN

THAT the 2018-2019 Financial Report be received as presented – CARRIED

c) Budget estimates 2019-20 (AGM19-T6-003)iii. Roger Régimbal presented the 2019-2020 Budget and provided copy of the

report for review iv. Jim Grieves, RTO/ERO – Vibrant Voices has had some momentum and it is

important to ensure that this continues. Roger Régimbal confirmed that there are a number of line items that

funding can be accessed for this purpose.

Moved by Martin Higgs and seconded by Gordon Cummings

THAT the Budget 2019-20 be adopted as presented – CARRIED

9. Executive Reports

of 20


a) President (AGM19-T7-001)i. Brian Kenny presented his report. A special thank you to all for working together

as a team for the betterment of ACER-CART.

b) Executive Director’s Report (AGM19-T7-002)i. Roger Régimbal presented his report and thanked the Executive and Directors.

Moved by Albert Legge RTANL and seconded by Margaret Prendergast RTAN

THAT the Executive reports be received – CARRIED

THAT the actions of the ACER-CART Executive since AGM 2018 be approved - CARRIED

11:00 am - Guest Speaker – Owen Adams Owen Adams, Chief Policy Advisor with CMA joined the meeting and provided a

presentation on behalf of the Canadian Medical Association and thanked ACER-CART for their continued support of seniors.

CMA’s Senior Care Advocacy resolution was adopted in 2013 followed by demand a plan in 2015, senior’s strategy in 2017, new Ministry of seniors was created in 2018 and now in 2019 there will be a new platform launched.

CMA will address the issues Canadians and their physicians face every day such as seniors care, health human resources, digital health, youth mental health, climate change, and pharmacare.

Canadian Health transfer top up and senior’s caregiver tax credit are two major concerns with regard to seniors care and these have been put forward.

2019 Federal Election Campaign is an area where CMA is becoming more active to advocate for seniors.

Majority of Canadians are worried and expecting increased costs due to an aging population. CMA is actively involved in ensuring affordable health care for seniors.

Ipsos polling results show that just behind a federal pharmacare program, increased funding to provinces for senior care and a new family care benefit to help seniors afford care options are seen as the policies most likely to improve the health system and are the most likely to sway votes.

Pharmacare is a bigger challenge and more information will come forward via the Hoskins report.

Questions: Does CMA monitor funds that are transferred from Federal to Provincial

Governments? - There is no specific accounting Ontario is going to cut their costs by not covering out of country expenses, is there

a body that monitors this funding? - CMA has commissioned a study related to element of health care spending.

Has there been any study done related to savings associated with a good pharmacare program? - There has been a Canadian study and same will share that with ACER-CART

How is CMA handling the lobbyist from pharmaceutical companies? - CMA is not in the business of disparaging pharmaceutical companies. Private insurance agencies have been more vocal.

of 20


Where do you see ACER-CART advocacy supporting pharmacare? - The information received today from ACER-CART will be reviewed.

ACER-CART is strongly advocating for pharmacare. Is it customary for CMA to seek partnerships such as ACER-CART? - CMA will take that suggestion forward.

Has CMA approached the Canadian Health Council for information related to health care? - They have a solid brand and the information would be beneficial.

ACER-CART position is that there only is one National Pharmacare program. Hoskins report will layout what is being recommended with respect to National

Pharmacare.

Bill Berryman thanked Owen for taking the time to attend today’s ACER-CART AGM.

10. Committee Reports

a) Communications (AGM19-T8-001i. Martin Higgs presented the report. Appreciate ideas for content, photos for

OPTIONS Newsletter. Some minor issues with website landing page are being addressed.

ii. Dale Lauber – what kind of human interest stories are being reported that can be shared with other regions to include on their websites.

iii. Jim Grieve – We need to be a more regular presence on social media to provide members with easier access to information.

iv. Margaret Prendergast – Does OPTIONS look at other regional newsletters that might be interesting to other areas.o Clarification related to seeking permission from the various groups to

publish information is being sought.v. Martha Foster explained that there has been a recent experience with

RTO/ERO whereby there was a potential lawsuit.vi. Alyson Hillier – It is important to ensure that information is available vii. Martha Foster – Social media requires regular review viii. Wayne Spires – What is required to make associations more approachable?

o Adding Martin Higgs to mailing list will facilitate this.ix. Tim Anderson – There is the matter of licensing fees and proprietary issues

that need to be considered to avoid lawsuits. o Shutterstock software has been purchased and all of the groups can use

same.x. Gordon Cumming – We need to clarify which organizations that ACER-CART

is trying to reach. ACER-CART should consider creating a one pager that all organizations can share with their respective members.

xi. Martha Foster– if we are trying to profile ACER-CART, we need to advertise who ACER-CART is.

b) Health Services and Insurance (AGM19-T8-002) i. Margaret Urquhart presented the report. Three issues being addressed

include links to reliable information on personal health and well-being, pharma care and federal provincial territorial accords.

ii. National Dementia Strategy report was brought forward recently and more information will follow.

iii. JoAnn Lauder noted that the various accords do not speak to how health care is going to be delivered (public/private). Emergency care and walk-in clinics are being replaced with urgent care facilities and private companies are being

of 20


invited to run those services. More information is available on individual provinces and territories websites.

iv. Margaret Urquhart encouraged everyone to find out “how” they plan to implement changes in areas such as the increase in number of beds.

v. Special thanks were extended to all who helped on the report.

DISCUSSION Marguerite Prendergast – How can ACER-CART find out what happens in the

different provinces/territories with respect to changes in health care? o Groups are encouraged to ask their various health/welfare ministers what

they agreed to do. June MacBain – Where can we find out the results for each of the

provinces/territories?o Website has a breakdown by province/territory and while not all of the

information is complete for all of the areas, there is valuable information available.

c) Political Advocacy (AGM19-T8-003)i. Gordon Cumming presented the report and thanked everyone on the executive

and the assembly for the knowledge, experience and input in the area of political advocacy.

ii. A recent E-petition was successful with an excess of 13,000 returns.iii. Vibrant Voices - Special thanks to RTO/ERO and the National Association of

Federal Retirees (NAFR) for facilitating a collaboration of leading national retiree groups.

iv. A fulsome document was provided – Seniors’ Issues for the 2019 Federal Election.

DISCUSSION Martha Foster – the ACER-CART publication should not be altered in any

way. Gerry Tiede – agrees that ACER-CART is looking for increased profile and the

ACER-CART publication is a way to do that. Jim Grieves – ACER-CART publication is a loud and clear voice and a strong

message that should be shared. Wayne Spires – can we share the ACER-CART publication with media? - Yes Margaret Urquhart– noted that groups sharing material therein should give

ACER-Cart credit for any material used. Bill Berryman extended thanks to the BC affiliate for the financial support in

producing the document.

Moved by Martha Foster RTO/ERO and seconded by Margaret Urquhart

THAT the publication Seniors’ Issues for the 2019 Federal election be used as produced by ACER-CART - CARRIED

d) Pension and Retirement Income (AGM19-T8-004)i. Gerry Tiede shared that the work of the Pension Committee this year included

the implementation of the strategy to combat Bill C-27, a federal Act to amend the Pension Benefits Standards Act, and allow the formation of new Target Benefit (TB) plans as well as the conversation of current Defined Benefit plans

of 20


to TB plans. Also included is promoting a pension insurance program, paid for by pension plans that would be available to pay pension when company pension plans have become insolvent. A petition was submitted and a copy has been provided.

ii. Special thanks to all who were instrumental in getting the word out about the e-petition.

DISCUSSION Gerry Tiede – the e-petition was simple and the ease and speed in which

members could participate was efficient and well received Gordon Cumming – expressed his appreciation to Gerry Tiede in particular for

his input and presentation on behalf of the organization.

e) Legislation Committee (AGM19-T8-005)i. Brian Kenny shared that during the past year, the legislative committee

reviewed corporate documents, received the mandate to develop protocol 8 and Advocacy and Promotion Guidelines for Retired Teachers and Seniors in Canada.

f) Nominations and Election Committee (AGM19-T8-006)i. At the request of the Nominations and Elections Chair, the official call for

nominations was sent out in January to the members requesting that they submit nominations for officer positions on the ACER-CART Executive. These were to be submitted by April 30, 2019.

Moved by June MacNairn NBSRT–Alyson Hillier RTO-NSTU

THAT Committee reports be received – CARRIED

Moved Cynthia MacDonald PEIRTA – Margaret Prendergast RTAN

THAT the actions of the ACER-CART Executive AGM 2018 be approved - CARRIED

11. Member Reports a) PIERTA (AGM19-T9-001)

i. Cynthia MacDonald reported that major concerns of the association at the federal level include National Pharmacare, pension security and senior housing. At the provincial level the concerns include changing 30 day prescriptions to 90 days (for routine prescriptions), National Pharmacare, more nursing care beds and senior housing shortage.

ii. Recent elections - 12 Progressive Conservative – 8 Green – 12 Liberal

b) QPARSE/APPERQ (AGM19-T9-002) i. Jan Langelier – focused on new elected CAQ government and their proposed

secularism legislation that caused an outcry in the Anglophone community. The introduction of legislation known as Bill 21, would prohibit teachers and in-school administrators from wearing any religious symbol. QPARSE has written a statement of its position in this case and is asking individual members to address these concerns with their Member of the National Assembly.

of 20


ii. Another legislation of concern has not been tabled but QPARSE has been informed of the intended direction of the bill. This law would remove elected school boards and replace those by service centres run by Ministry appointed members. This is currently being contested by the school boards who are, claiming that this would not be constitutional for the English minority in Quebec.

Motion that ACER-CART endorse the QPARSE position paper on Bill 21 and that they share this information with QPARSE-QPAT and AAESQ.

Moved Gordon Cummings – Lawrence Hrycan RTP-NSTU

THAT ACER-CART endorse the QPARSE position on Bill 21 and that they share this information with QPARSE-QPAT and AAESQ - CARRIED

c) SERFNB (AGM19-T9-003) i. Jacques Albert shared that major concerns at the federal level include

privatization versus publicly managed health care and pharmacare.ii. At the provincial level, the society, together with many francophone

associations are very preoccupied with bilingualism in New Brunswick.

d) NBSRT (AGM19-T9-004)i. June MacNairn shared that the Premiere of the day in New Brunswick will not

accept binding arbitration – only offering 1% to staff in nursing homes who have been without a contract for 4 years.

ii. Shortage of nursing homes.iii. Closing tourism centres in the name of fiscal responsibility.iv. Major action – student discipline. There seems to be a perception that parents

are not supporting teachers when student discipline is involved.

e) RTO-NSTU (AGM19-T9-005)i. Bill Berryman highlighted major concerns federally which include:

engagement in the National Pharmacare Program, National Seniors Strategy and pension security. Bill Berryman met with Liberal MP Darrell Samson and has developed a relationship with him for information sharing.

ii. Concerns provincially include: relationship with the Nova Scotia Teachers Union (NSTU), pension, shortage of doctors and healthcare services, Seniors’ Advisory Council.

iii. Shared document – “How to Get Involved”

f) RTANL (AGM19-T9-006)i. Albert Legge highlighted concerns federally which includes: National

Pharmacare, health care funding, define benefit pension plan, CPP and OAS, privatization.

ii. Concerns provincially include: Seniors quality of life as it relates to health and other concerns, affordable care of seniors in Long Term Care, accessible testing for hearing and coverage for hearing aids, better dental, improvements to Home Support Program, electric power cost escalation, senior prescription drug usage, lower automobile insurance rates and renewal of drivers’ licences.

iii. Major federal advocacy initiatives: Coalition of seniors, retirees and pensioners, Bill C-27, universal Pharmacare and retirement security.

of 20


g) BCRTA (AGM19-T9-007)i. Gerry Tiede highlighted concerns federally which includes: Opposition to bill

C-27, protection of retirement income security and support for a universal, single-payer National Pharmacare plan.

ii. At the provincial level, concerns include: privatization of medical services and implementation of the Ombudsperson’s report on BC seniors care.

iii. Main activities during the year included BCRTA initiated campaign which increased membership in 2018-19, successful pension workshops.o Margaret Urquhart requested more information related to the free

membership for one year.o Tim Anderson explained that the free one year membership garnered a

greater number of new members. While finances were impacted the first year and revenue jumped back up in the second and ongoing years.

h) AARTA (AGM19-T9-008)i. Marilyn Bossert shared that Alberta has work to do with governments and the

report provides more details. ii. At the federal level: Dr. Eric Hoskins Advisory Council report and addressing

the need to protect pensions.iii. At the provincial level: Universal drug plan, seniors housing and aging in

place.iv. Received to merit awards including one for the publication of a diabetes

brochure (distributed to assembly members)o Point of privilege – name Kenny is spelled Kenney

i) STS (AGM19-T9-009)i. Marie Leblanc-Warwick highlighted that concerns at the federal level include

National Pharmacare, national senior’s strategy and pension security. ii. At the provincial level concerns include the relationship with the Nova Scotia

Teachers Union (NSTU), pensions, shortage of doctors and healthcare services and the national seniors’ advisory council.

iii. In October 2019, STS will be conducting their second Wellness Symposium which will introduce delegates to the Fountain of Health initiative for Optimal Aging: A unique Canadian Strategy to Promote Resilience.o Copy will be shared with the Roger Régimbal for distribution to the

members of the Assembly.

j) RTAM (AGM19-T9-0010) i. Joan Dawson shared that Manitoba has changed their vision statement and it

now reads: RTAM values belief in mutual respect, diversity of opinion, tolerance of different viewpoints, integrity and transparency while working collaboratively towards a common goal.

ii. Manitoba is a member of the senior coalition.

k) RTO/ERO (AGM19-T9-0011)i. Martha Foster reported that Ontario has three new districts which include the

Prairies, Atlantic and Quebec.ii. New fee structure was passed at the recent Senate and those fees are now

standard for all members.

of 20


iii. Current government is making changes that are directly affecting education, health care and seniors. Those issues are keeping RTO/ERO very busy.

iv. Ontario also has free first year membership and this has been very successful in increasing membership. This spring has been the largest intake of new members in the history of RTO/ERO

l) QART (AGM19-T9-0012)i. No report

m) YRTA (AGM19-T9-0013)i. Ken Nash was not present, however did submit his report which included

majors concerns related to senior housing, health care, senior tax benefits and abuse of the elderly.

Moved by Margaret Urquhart RRE Alyson Hillier NBSRT

THAT the Member reports be received – CARRIED

Announcements/Adjournment Chair adjourned the meeting at 4:00 pm

of 20


Saturday, June 8, 2019

12. Updatesa) Budget update (AGM19-T6-003)

i. No changes

b) Election update (last call for nominations) (AGM19-T10-007)i. No new nominations were received.

Presentation by Johnson Inc. – Richard Harrison and Robert Dowden – 9:25 am Richard Harrison thanked the assembly for the invitation to make a presentation. Emerging trends impacting auto insurance costs were shared by Robert Dowden.

o Natural disasters in recent years is affecting insurance overallo Vehicles continue to get larger and more sophisticated, repair cost continue

to increase. Rating and underwriting rules becoming more personalized.o Canadian property and casualty insurers paid out $535 million more in auto

claims during the first quarter of 2018 than they did during the same period last year. Net claims costs in the auto line increased 16.4% in 2018.

o Distracted driving kills more people than impaired driving. Marijuana impairment will equal distracted driving in the next year.

o More and more people are attracted to SUVs. However, because they are physically bigger, their parts are bigger and repairs involve more labour hours. On average SUVs are 23% more expensive to repair than cars.

o Average repair cost increased by 5%, parts 9%, labour 4% and total repair costs increase since 2015 is 20%.

o More vehicles are written off while small dents are claimed. It is becoming more economical to write-off a vehicle, than pay for repairs and rental and this will be an escalating trend. Cost resulting from technology is going up.

o Insurance fraud costs (including over-billing by repair shops) drive an increase estimated at 1.6 billion each year. This amount is impacting premiums.

Emerging Trends in Health presented by Richard Harrison.o Ontario Regulation 552, OHI, National Pharmacare, USMCA, Pan Canadian

Pharmaceutical Alliance (PCPA), Express script Canada website for 2018 (www.express-scripts.ca/knowledge-centre/drug-trend-reports.

o Ontario Regulation 552 is due to pass in October 2019 and insurance industry forecasts that future claims experience is estimated to increase insurance premiums by 7-10%.

Rich Prophet brought forward that the Canada Health Act will no longer cover medical expenses for individuals visiting outside of Canada. – Richard explained that there are cuts in all areas of health and this area is one of the areas impacted. There should be an adjudication cost savings as a result. Martha Foster – do other provinces have the same issue facing them?

o A – Richard Harrison explained that the discussion will open across all of the provinces and that Government has a tendency to test the limit.

o A – Robert Dowden shared that if Ontario shows any savings as a result of this change, it is likely that other provinces will follow. Government is downloading and they continue to erode health care.

of 20

http://www.express-scripts.ca/knowledge-centre/drug-trend-reports


o OHIP+ was started by the Wynn Government to provide free prescription drugs for individuals under the age of 25. The Ford government has reversed this decision effective November 2019.

o National Pharmacare is an issue where some provinces will win while others will lose and it will be an interesting election issue.

Martha Foster shared that a purchasing plan is what provinces are considering o Richard Harrison explained that the National formulary will cover most

drugs and common plan design and the supplemental side will be simplified nationally.

o Robert Dowden shared that nationally, it will open the purchasing power and it could go to a first pay or second pay. One of those things that will be a wait and see if it comes to fruition. If Pharmacare is not addressed in this election, it is likely not to happen for a long time.

o US/Mexico CA biologic will change the cost of biologic prescription drugs that require special handling. Cost of providing these products have increased substantially and these are driving pooling costs (re-insurance costs). USMCA will give protection to innovators for another two years and physicians will often not change prescription to lower cost options which will keep the cost of biological drugs high for an unknown amount of time.

o PAN-CANADIAN PHARMACEUTICAL ALLIANCE (PCPA) Richard Harrison explained that commonly prescribed generic drugs have reduced in cost by approximately 5%. There are more claimants as well as claims per claimant and cost per claim is what drives drug costs.

Rich Prophet shared that pharmaceutical companies provide kickbacks to insurance companies. Why is there no consistency across the provinces?o Richard Harrison explained that Johnsons is not an insurance company,

they are a benefit provider. Rebating issues by pharmaceutical companies is being investigated. Adjudicators such as Johnston are controlling providers in order to control prescription drug costs and balance billing. Provider agreements protects the claimant from being over-charged by pharmacies who have attempted to charge more than the actual costs. There will be more effort in the future to control the cost of prescription drugs.

o Express Script Canada website for 2018 offers detailed information that will be of interest to this assembly.

Bill Berryman shared that it is important to continue the communication related to pharmacare during the upcoming election.

DISCUSSIONJim Grieves – what is the objective of delivering todays message as you have? What message should we be bringing back to our members?o Robert Dowden noted that while the cost of insurance continues to

increase, the life span of individuals with illness has increased. Providing information to members is proactive.

o Richard Harrison indicated that there needs to be awareness around pharmacare particularly. When propositions are proposed, what does that mean for members across the provinces. Be informed, be wary.

Bill Berryman thanked Johnson Insurance for a detailed presentation.

of 20


13. Discussion on Election readiness (AGM19-T10-007)No discussion

Timed item – 11:00 - Close of nominations (AGM19-T10-008)a) No further nominations were received and the following were elected by

acclamation to the 2019-2020 Executive Committee:

President Vice-PresidentBill Berryman RTO-NSTU Gerry Tiede BCRTA

Regional Representative–East Regional Representative–WestMargaret Urquhart NBSRT Marilyn Bossert ARTA

Regional Representative–OntarioMartin Higgs RTO/ERO

Moved by Brian Kenny and seconded by Margaret Prendergast

THAT the 2019-2020 Executive Committee be approved - CARRIED

1. The topic of e-petition was brought to the Assembly for discussion:a. Advocacy Committee will submit questions to the political parties based on

comments received.b. How can we keep the momentum? Use Vibrant Voices, press release, media

coverage. Margaret Prendergast shared that when we are able to put a face to a name

and suggested that taking the idea to active and retired teachers across the various the provinces would be beneficial. ACER-CART has three main priorities and it gives more strength to provinces and territories which assists them to recommend and support the priorities as the 2019 election approaches.

Martha Foster noted that Ontario has a strategic plan to meet with groups such as CMA and Vibrant Voices to get our message across to the decision makers.

Gordon Cumming indicated that through Roger Régimbal there are funds available to support activities that will bring national level concerns and initiatives to the table.

Tim Anderson indicated that one of the benefits of keeping information cascading is that it keeps the information live and current. Answers received by political parties are stories that can then be shared with members.

Margaret Urquhart suggested that this group needs to connect with the Canadian Teachers Association.

Bill Berryman shared that members of the assembly are encouraged to meet with the local presidents to communicate the priorities of ACER-CART and you are also invited to continue sending ideas, suggestions and comments to Roger Régimbal as they become available.

2. Executive Resolutions (AGM19-T11-01) a) Executive Resolution E-1 2019

Moved by Jan Langelier and seconded by Dale Lauber

THAT Protocol 8 be adopted as presented - CARRIED

3. Member Associations Resolutions (AGM 19T11-002)

of 20


a) BC – Resolution M-1 2019Moved by Dale Lauber and seconded by Gerry Tiede

THAT ACER-CART raise the awareness among members of the efforts by provincial governments to privatize health care services in violation of the Canada Health Act - CARRIED

b) BC – Resolution M-2 2019Moved by Dale Lauber and seconded by Gerry Tiede

THAT ACER-CAET join other national seniors’ organizations in urging the federal government to intervene in the practice of rebates to pharmacists by pharmaceutical companies - CARRIED

c) BC – Resolution M-3 2019Moved by Dale Lauber and seconded by Gerry Tiede

THAT ACER CART continue to work toward a universal single payer National Pharmacare plan - CARRIEDo Martha noted that this motion has already been addressed and the resolution

is out of order.

d) Saskatchewan – Resolution M4-STSMoved by Marie LeBlanc-Warick and seconded by Gordon Cumming

THAT ACER CART approach provincial/territorial governments to provide income tax credits for seniors who need to access help in order to remain in their own homes – CARRIED

e) Saskatchewan – Resolution M5-STSMoved by Marie LeBlanc-Warick and seconded by Gordon Cumming

THAT ACER CART support the request to the federal government to increase the pension income amount (line 314 on CRA income tax forms) deduction from $2,000 TO $5,000 – CARRIED

f) Saskatchewan – Resolution M6-STSMoved by Marie LeBlanc-Warick and seconded by Gordon Cumming

THAT ACER CART lobby the federal government to not allow defined-benefit pension plans under federal jurisdiction to be converted to target benefit plans – CARRIED

o Friendly amendment – to remove “withdraw Bill C-27 which would allow “– ACCEPTED

4. Priorities 2019-20 (AGM19-T11-004)a) ACER-CART will, in collaboration with like-minded organizations as appropriate,

i. Advocate for the federal government’s implementation of a universal, public comprehensive, accessible and portable single payer pharmacare program.

ii. Closely monitor the 10 year bilateral health funding agreements with the provinces and territories

of 20


iii. Oppose privatization of health-care services and monitor the federal government support of the provisions of the Canada Health Act to ensure that Canadians receive universal accessibility of medical care without extra charges.

b) ACER-CART will monitor and continue to collaborate with like-minded organizations to oppose any federal legislation that would lead to the demise of define benefit pension plans.

c) ACER-CART will collaborate with like-minded organizations to encourage the development and the implementation of a National Seniors Strategy.

d) ACER-CART will seek the elevate the profile and the value of our national Association in our Member provincial associations and their members.

e) ACER-CART will seek to extend our relationships with CTF/FCE.

DISCUSSION Gerry Tiede – will share provincial information nationally Martha Foster – we need to produce things like the election booklet and

nationalize those publications. Gordon Cumming – ACER-CART confirmed that publications are shared

nationally Marie LeBlanc-Warick – shared that the newsletter last year worked well and

timely information and messages from ACER-CART are important to share provincially

Rich Prophet – ACER-CART need to present verbal reports at various AGMs. Recommends an E-blast with ACER-CART resolutions which would be informative.

Roger Régimbal – confirmed that we do not send written reports to CTF Dale Lauber – We could give ACER-CART a more promenate place on

provincial websites to deliver information to members nationally. Leonard Légère – Agrees with suggestion put forward by Gerry Tiede and if we

share the ACER-CART logo that it will be a plus. Margaret Prendergast – Likes what Gerry Tiede said with the one pager which

could be distributed with newsletters. Gerry Tiede – there is support to do this and this is encouraging. Goal is to

elevate impact of the association. Additional comments, please send along. Rich Prophet – NAFER indicated that single payer was not the appropriate

language used. Bill Berryman – will leave in single payer as a friendly amendment

5. Budget Resolutions (AGM19-T6-003)Moved by Gordon Cumming and seconded by Dale Lauber

THAT the 2019-2020 budget be approved as received - CARRIED

DISCUSSION i. $500.00 approved earlier will come out of line 401

6. New Businessa) None

b) THANK YOU a) CTF-FCE for their hospitality and continuing help during the year,b) Minister Tassi for addressing our assembly,

of 20


c) Mark Ramsankar president CTF-FCE,d) Johnson’s Inc for their continued support,e) Richard Harrison of Johnson’s Inc. for his presentation,f) Bob Dowden of Johnson’s for his presentation,g) Samantha Perrin for taking care of ACER-CART finances,h) Lorraine Smith-Champagne for her support and recording of minutes,i) Susan Dallin O’Grady for her logistic planning of the AGM,j) Owen Adams for his presentation on CMA Demand a Plan, k) Sayward Montague and Candace Zavac for their presentation on Election

preparedness andl) Candace for her presentation.

Moved by Gerry Tiede and seconded by Martin Higgs

THAT the ACER-CART 2019 AGM Thank – CARRIED

7. AdjournmentMoved by Alyson Hillier and seconded by Margaret Prendergast

THAT the ACER-CART 2019 assembly be adjourned - CARRIED

The Chair adjourned the meeting at 1:30 pm

Next AGM will be held on June 5-6, 2020Hilton Hotel on Queen Street

of 20


List of Participants

Canadian Teachers’ Federation Offices, OttawaJune 7-8, 2019

PresentPresident Bill BerrymanVice-President Gerry TiedePast-President Brian KennyRegional Representative–Ontario Martin HiggsRegional Representative–East Margaret UrquhartRegional Representative–West Gordon CummingExecutive Director Roger RégimbalSpecial Advisor JoAnn LauberBritish Columbia Retired Teachers’ Association Dale LauberAlberta Retired Teachers Association Lawrence HrycanSuperannuated Teachers of Saskatchewan Marie LeBlanc-WarickRetired Teachers Association of Manitoba Margaret PrendergastRetired Teachers of Ontario Martha FosterQuebec Provincial Association of Retired School Educators Jan LangelierSociété des enseignantes et enseignants retraités francophones du Nouveau-Brunswick Linda LeblancNew Brunswick Society of Retired Teachers June MacNairnRetired Teachers Organization of the NSTU Alyson HillierPrince Edward Island Retired Teachers’ Association Cynthia MacDonaldRetired Teachers Association of Newfoundland & Labrador Albert Legge

ObserversARTA Marilyn BossertBCRTA Tim AndersonNBSRT Wayne SpiresQPARSE Katherine SnowRTANL Sharon PennyRTO/ERO Rich ProphetRTO/ERO Jim GrieveRTAM Joan DawsonPIERTA Wayne DenmanSERFNB Léonard Légère

RegretsQuebec Association of Retired Teachers John GreeneYukon Retired Teachers Alumni Ken Nash

StaffFinancial Officer–CTF-FCE Samantha PerrinMeeting and Event Planner Susan Dallin O’Grady

OtherSecretary Lorraine Smith-Champagne

Special GuestsCanadian Teachers’ Federation Mark RamsankarJohnson’s Inc. Richard Harrison/

Robert DowdenMinister of Seniors Honourable Filomena Tassi

of 20

APPENDIX A

agm18-minutes · web viewgerry tiede shared that the work of the pension committee this year...

Documents