Retirees need a better way forward

Dear Editor,

The National Association of Federal Retirees is calling on the province’s next government to act now to ensure secure, healthy and dignified retirements for Albertans.

This is more important now than ever before. Albertans over age 65 are the fastest-growing population segment in the province. Over 15 per cent, or more than 725,000 Albertans, are already over age 65. By 2040, that number is expected to be over 1.1 million. By the mid-2040s, one in five Albertans will be over age 65. 

Alberta needs a plan for its health-care system, including urgent investment and restructuring so that health care and social services are accessible, equitable and high quality. These investments must be prioritized, along with good decisions made in Albertans’ best interests regarding public safety and the long-term retirement security of Albertans. 

Alberta needs a plan for a better way forward. 

Alberta’s next government must commit to…

Bringing back an effective, independent seniors advocate and developing and implementing a provincial seniors strategy. 

Investing in health care, from primary care to home care to long-term care, addressing surgical wait times within the public health-care system and ensuring Alberta’s long-term care standards are implemented and enforced. 

Ensuring the long-term sustainability of Albertans’ pensions by remaining with the Canada Pension Plan. 

Delivering public safety in continued partnership with the RCMP. 

The National Association of Federal Retirees is the largest advocacy organization representing active and retired members of the federal public service, Canadian Armed Forces, Royal Canadian Mounted Police and retired federally appointed judges, as well as their spouses and survivors.    

With 170,000 members nationally — including 12,000 in Alberta —- and 60,000 veterans and their families, the Association has advocated for improvements to the financial security, health and well-being of our members and all Canadians since 1963.   

It’s time for a better way forward.

Maria Fitzpatrick, Lethbridge