Official news magazine of the B.C. Federation of Retired Union Members (BC FORUM) Vol. 21 No. 1 Spring 2018

Hundreds gathered in and Victoria to remember Dave Barrett – a tireless champion for ordinary people. See our story on page 6.

CAMPAIGN FOR PHARMACARE Are the Liberals giving us the runaround – again?

ell that was quick. Usually as minister Morneau proposes, won’t health system that does not have a they wait until after an change that,” said Wood. national public drug plan. Welection to break their “We’ll need to keep up the pressure Research published in the promises. It took the Trudeau govern- for a national program that ensures Canadian Medical Association ment only 24 hours to shatter their everyone can get their prescriptions. Journal found that such a plan promise of action on a long overdue Too many are forced to do without, could save Canadians up to $7.3 national prescription drug plan. and end up in hospitals much sicker billion a year. It was a big announcement in the than they were before.” The federal Liberals last promised federal budget speech. A lot of people BC FORUM has long campaigned a pharmacare program in their 1997 were both thrilled and surprised. The for pharmacare, noting that Canada platform. They didn’t deliver then, very next day the finance minister is the only country with a public and are already backtracking now. said he didn’t really mean it. It’s just “a strategy” not a plan, said Bill Morneau. It would never replace private plans like those provided Official notice of 2018 by his former company, Morneau Shepell, the largest benefit consult- Annual General Meeting ing firm in the country, he explained. • You are cordially invited to attend BC FORUM’s annual general meeting Wed. June 27 in the UFCW auditorium, 350 Columbia, New Westminster. “It’s deeply disturbing that the man who controls the purse strings • In addition to resolutions, reports, and informative speakers, members has already made it clear he wants will vote on a special resolution to amend our constitution and bylaws to maintain the patchwork system and ensure they are in full compliance with the new BC Societies Act that forces Canadians to pay some adopted in 2016. of the highest prices in the world • Further details of the meeting are on page 11. for prescription drugs,” says Diane • Please mark your calendar today. We look forward to seeing you. And Wood, President of BC FORUM. feel free to bring a friend! “Papering over some of the gaps, THE ADVOCATE

Board of Directors Labour Council President Delegates and Regional In this Diane Wood, BCGEU Representatives Chair Campbell River, Irene Lanzinger, BCFED Courtenay & District edition Vice President Suzanne Bennett We have lost two extraordinary advo- Bill Silvester, USW Lynda Reid cates for ordinary people. Dave Barrett and Lorraine Logan both earned our Sam Wiese, PSAC East Kootenay & District Chris Johns love and admiration. We thank them Secretary for their inspiring and selfless efforts to Gary Werk Miriam Olney, UFCW make life better for the rest of us. Fraser Valley Treasurer In this edition: Pamela Willingshofer Dan Bradford, BCGEU • Fighting for the right to a vote that Kamloops & District Directors really counts...... 5 Mogens Jorgensen Donisa Bernardo, HEU • Remembering Dave Barrett ...... 6 Kitimat, Terrace & District Tony Brown, ILWU • Strengthening public health care ....8 Fred Girling, USW Raymond Raj • A budget for people ...... 10 Gord Larkin, CLC Nanaimo, Duncan & District • Remembering Lorraine Logan ...... 14 Barb Mikulec, BCTF Iris Taylor Marion Pollack, CUPW New Westminster & District • Due for renewal? Renew your John Radosevic, UNIFOR Gerry Townsend BC FORUM membership today...... 15 Andy Ross, MoveUp North Central Copyright 2018 John Savage, UNIFOR Victor Johnson Articles may be re-printed if they include: Gord Savard, CUPE Heather Sapergia “Reprinted with permission from The Advocate, official newsmagazine of the Maureen Shaw, FPSE Ron Williams Russ St. Eloi, BCTC B.C. Federation of Retired Union Members, North Okanagan www.bcforum.ca.” Staff Doug Gibson Theresa Couture, USW Greg McGowan Visit the BC FORUM website: Port Alberni & District Mike Lang www.bcforum.ca South Okanagan Boundary John Colbourne The Advocate is published by the Join us on Facebook: B.C. Federation of Retired Union Terry Green Members. BC FORUM – supported by Squamish Labour Committee facebook.com/ WE Consulting and Benefits and affiliated Marie Worth BCRetiredUnion with the B.C. Federation of Labour – is Sunshine Coast dedicated to representing the interests MembersForum of members and their families, continu- Ray Haynes ing into retirement the relationship they Vancouver & District enjoyed with the union movement. Sandy Bauer #200-5118 Joyce Street Agnes Jackman Printing of the Vancouver, BC V5R 4H1 Victoria Toll-free 1.800.896.5678 Advocate courtesy Tel. 604.688.4565 Nora Butz [email protected] Holly Page of UFCW Local 1518 Editor: Soren Bech West Kootenay & District [email protected] Mary Gay 2102 Porter Rd, Roberts Creek, B.C., V0N 2W5

2 – The Advocate, Spring 2018 FROM THE PRESIDENT Power to the people: make every vote count

hrough our years in the union for ordinary people, the folks who movement, we’ve all seen how should be the primary concern of any Tdifficult it can be to negotiate government, but it’s not written in real gains. It’s a step-by-step process stone. Another government can undo that requires patience, determination, it with the stroke of a pen. and a willingness to walk the line. Governments, at their best, are the Then, before you know it, the next way we work together to do things contract is due and we’re negotiat- we can’t do on our own. They create ing again – perhaps with an employer the social and economic infrastruc- who wants to roll back our gains. ture that provides opportunities for If there’s one thing I’ve learned in everyone, not just the few. years of bargaining and campaigning, I am very impressed by the steps this is it: there are no absolute victor- the Horgan government has taken ies. Even as we celebrate our gains, to make life more affordable and to we can never rest. If we don’t keep improve social services, education pushing forward, special interests will and public health care (see our cover- try to push us back. age of the latter on page 8.) There are powerful people whose Unfortunately, everything that world-view is quite different from ordinary people have gained under ours. Their priorities are individual the current government is fragile. privilege and private wealth. Despite winning a combined They have little regard for the 57 percent of the votes, the New harm they cause to the public good, Democrats and Greens have a major- the climate, or all the less fortun- ity of just one single seat in the ate men, women and children who Legislature. There is no room for error Diane Wood or even a badly timed sick day. have been denied opportunities to lot of syllables. It’s a mouthful and it get ahead. For far too long, they To me, this illustrates the pervers- seems like an abstract concept. have been buying governments to ity of our current electoral system. But just like people had to strug- get their way. Political parties that win 57 percent gle over the years to win the right of the votes should end up with 57 Thankfully, the NDP government to vote, making every vote count acted quickly to ban big money percent of the seats. Any other result is a struggle we have to win – not from BC politics. That’s a big victory – like our present circumstances – just makes it painfully clear that many of to favour a particular party, but to our votes don’t count. give real power to voters in a true democracy. Just look at our federal govern- Join us today! ment. The Trudeau Liberals won a If we want governments that ou can join BC FORUM massive “majority” government with consistently put people first, and Yusing the form on page 15, the support of just 39.5 percent of actually do represent a majority of or online at www.bcforum.ca. voters. Yet first past the post gives voters, this is where it starts. Every If you’re already a member, them all the power. vote must count. please check the mailing label How can we claim to have repre- I strongly urge you to support elec- on page 16 to see if you’re due sentative governments when the toral reform when you vote in the for renewal. choices, hopes and dreams of so BC referendum that will be held this Thanks for all you do to many voters are not represented in fall. It’s a big step forward for ordin- support our work! Parliament? ary people. (You can read more about Proportional representation is a it on page 5 of this edition.) The Advocate, Spring 2018 – 3 FEDERAL POLITICS

Is the halo slipping, or has he just lost a little off the top? Promises and peccadillos he number of Canadians who delivering little or nothing, and at violated the rules by vacationing on disapprove of Prime Minister times acting plain silly. the Aga Khan’s private island. TJustin Trudeau has increased to The more people see for them- This spring, we saw Trudeau and 56 percent, according to an opinion selves that his commitments are his family embark on a scandal poll conducted by Angus Reid. meaningless, the more they doubt plagued and at times laughable trip That’s the worst rating at this whether he can be trusted. to India. Who invited the terrorist point in a prime minister’s first term Trudeau has reneged on his iron- mastermind? And what was the deal since Brian Mulroney in 1988. It’s the clad election promise to reform with dressing the whole family as first time Trudeau’s approval rating Canada’s egregious first-past-the-post though they were wealthy Indians? has plunged into negative territory. electoral system. And now, Trudeau has launched Reid also found the federal Liberals Only after the election did he a study of pharmacare – already are running 10 points behind the explain that he wanted a ranked studied and recommended by royal Conservatives. That party’s 40 ballot – which would strongly favour commissions in 1964 and 2002, and percent support would likely result his own party. When a House of promised in the 1997 Liberal election in a majority Conservative govern- Commons committee instead recom- platform. ment if an election were held now. mended a system that would respect Pharmacare would be great if So what’s happened to Trudeau- voters’ choices, he abruptly halted it happens. But maybe we should mania, eh? It appears to be a any prospect for change. believe it when we see it, and not combination of promising much, The ethics commissioner found he hold our breath in the meantime. 4 – The Advocate, Spring 2018 MAKE EVERY VOTE COUNT Fighting for the right to cast a vote that really counts or more than 700 years, ordinary of us are fairly represented in parlia- stability we need – stability and prog- women and men have struggled ment, political parties pretty much ress for people. Fto win the right to vote for their have to work together. Imagine that. We fought for the right to vote. representatives in government. There Legislation, services and initiatives We must continue to fight to ensure were a lot of kings, feudal lords and they undertake together are far more that every single one of our votes wealthy elites who didn’t want that to likely to be well thought through and will count. We have our chance to happen. Thankfully, every Canadian of lasting benefit to people. finally win that battle in this year’s can now cast a ballot. Regardless of which party forms provincial referendum on long over- Until very recently, the descend- government, that’s the kind of due electoral reform in B.C. ants of the big money players who fought universal suffrage used another tool to get their way. They were unfettered in spend- A brief timeline of voting rights ing millions in political pay-offs to advance their private interests, 1265 – A small percentage of adult males win the right to vote in regardless of the impact on the public England, whose first-past-the-post electoral system Canada welfare and our environment. inherited. Big money in B.C. politics was 1432 – King Henvy VI decrees that only owners of property worth at outlawed last year. least 40 shillings, a substantial sum, could vote. For now however, the first-past- 1832 – One in seven adult males in England win right to vote, a 60 the-post system – invented in percent increase. England long before trains, tele- graphs and telephones were even 1871 – The new province of strips the franchise from imagined – continues to endure. First Nations, and prevents people of Chinese and Japanese ancestry from voting. As a result, we often end up with “majority governments” that win 40 1916 – Manitoba becomes first province where women can vote in percent of the votes and 100 percent provincial elections. of the power. The opinions of 60 1918 – Women win the right to vote in federal elections. percent of voters are ignored. The many are governed by the few. 1940 – recognizes women’s right to vote, the last province Supporters of first-past-the-post to do so. say it brings stability. 1947 – People of Chinese and Indo-Canadian heritage are allowed One must ask, stability for whom? to vote. For politicians, or for people? 1948 – Japanese Canadians win the vote. For people the vaunted stability is an illusion. Newly elected govern- 1960 – First Nations peoples win the vote in federal elections. ments throughout Canada often 1982 – Charter of Rights and Freedom guarantees all adult citizens the spend a lot of time reversing what right to vote. the previous government did. Undo. Redo. Undo. Repeat. 2017 – Justin Trudeau breaks his set in stone promise to end the anti- quated first-past-the-post voting system. Voters deserve steady progress, not the head snapping twists and turns 2017 – British Columbia bans big money in politics. that are a permanent feature of this 2018 – In November, British Columbians will vote on a referendum on bitterly partisan first-past-the-post electoral reform – our opportunity to modernize our electoral roller coaster. system so every vote will count. When every vote counts, and all

The Advocate, Spring 2018 – 5 REMEMBERING DAVE BARRETT Dave Barrett changed my life was such a bril- He changed liant leader and your life too speaker. By Soren Bech “How much Editor, The Advocate time do we have,” he asked here are so many things that before record- our children and grandchildren ing a Provincial Twill never experience. Affairs segment They will never hop from foot to at the CBC. foot outside a pay toilet at the mall, “Four and a half wondering if they can crawl under minutes,” I said. the door or borrow a coin. “Give me a sign when there’s 30 They will never stand on a gym seconds left.” floor, told by a smirking teacher to The camera grab their ankles while he aims his rolled. He spoke. “board of education” at their butt – No script. A an experience that persisted in other perfect beginning, provinces for three decades after the middle and end. Barrett government banned the strap, Exactly on time. the cane and the paddle. Dave Barrett with his grandson Andrew. The left half of this photo In one take. They will never see an ambulance by Bob Akester was used as a poster in Barrett’s 1989 campaign At large rallies, for leader of the federal NDP. run by Henderson’s Funeral Home. including in the As a young radio reporter, I phoned accomplished. There has not been as heated 1975 election campaign, Dave Opposition Leader Dave Barrett about much mention of how difficult it was. did the unthinkable. an accident on the provincially The decision to create ICBC, and He took questions from the floor. owned Pacific Great Eastern railway. stop the drain of insurance dollars out Lots of questions. And he answered I expected to get a political of province was not greeted kindly by them all, genuinely, patiently, and response, blasting the Social Credit multinational for-profit insurers. passionately. government’s lack of regard for safety. The agricultural land reserve was In 1976, I attended a Barrett speech This is not the time for that, he not welcomed by speculators who in Nanaimo, where another legend- said. Instead, he talked about the wanted to pave our farmland. ary orator, Tommy Douglas, was the people who had been hurt and his Backed by big money interests, member of parliament. hopes that they would fully recover. there were a lot of noisy protests. The Dave spoke from a head table. And that’s part of the reason corporate media were brutal. There Tommy sat beside him. I couldn’t why, as soon as I was old enough, I were bumper stickers reading Buck help watching Tommy watching renounced my Danish citizenship so Farrett. There were death threats. Dave. Tommy smiled. He nodded his I could vote for him and his party. Through it all, Dave Barrett head as though he was keeping time Through subsequent years, when retained his sense of humour and with music of Dave’s oratory. I had the wholly unexpected oppor- incredible ability to inspire. At rallies, in committee rooms, in tunity to work for and with Dave He had thought things through. election planning meetings, in public Barrett – as editor of the monthly He knew what he was doing, why he or in private, Dave was the same Democrat tabloid while he was was doing it, and who he was doing it person. His priorities never wavered. Premier and later as communica- for. The histrionics of outraged elites He smiled. He told jokes. He laughed. tions coordinator for the BC NDP who were used to having everything He inspired people to work really – he steadfastly held to his priorities. go their way couldn’t change that. hard for the things that matter. Numerous tributes to Barrett have Knowing exactly what he stood for He fought for us. He loved us. And noted how much his government was, I believe, a big part of why he I loved him. 6 – The Advocate, Spring 2018 EQUALITY SERVICES TO SENIORS HUMAN RIGHTS EQUALITY HUMANSeniorsA step RIGHTS Advocate towards highlights equality concerns

he third annual report on and services given they will depend “The popularity of the Property Aritish cOstepluMBiA will re-establish towards “The BC Federation ofequality Labour highest level,” said Irene Lanzinger, aseniors’ human services rights commission reveals “some to onbelieves these stronglymore and that more human as they rights age.” TaxPresident Deferment of the Program BC Federation demonstrates of fightvery meaningfulinequality and trends discrimin that- areFor workers’ the 81 rights, percent and of that seniors systemic who itsLabour. value “Thein helping BC Human those seniorsRights Tritish cOluMBiA will re-establish “The BC Federation of Labour highest level,” said Irene Lanzinger, Bcan tell us whether we are heading who are homeowners to address the ation, Premier has owndiscrimination their home, of themarginalized number of work new- Commission can help to address this in thea righthuman direction rights commission in delivering to believes strongly that human rights risingPresident costs of of themaintaining BC Federation a home,” of announced.fight inequality and discrimin- individualsareers workers’needs to rights,claiming be addressed and propertythat systemic at thetax Labour.discrimination.” “The BC Human Rights Bthe supports and services that are deferment nearly doubled in 2017. Mackenzie said. “Every person deserves to be keyation, to Premierassisting Johnseniors Horgan to main has- discrimination of marginalized work- Commission can help to address this treated with dignity and respect. tainannounced. independence and enjoy good ers needs to be addressed at the discrimination.” By re-establishing a human rights health,”“Every says person B.C. Seniorsdeserves Advocate to be commission, we will create a more Isobeltreated Mackenzie. with dignity and respect. inclusive and just society, where we ByThe re-establishing report shows a human the number rights workcommission, together we to willeliminate create inequal a more- ofity seniorsand prevent in the discrimination province grew on theby 32,307inclusive to anda total just of society, 882,731 where or 18.4 we workbasis oftogether race, religion, to eliminate sexual inequal orien- percenttation, genderof the populationidentity and in gender 2017, comparedity and prevent to 17.9 discrimination percent in 2016. on the basisexpression,” of race, said religion, Horgan. sexual orien- tation,“TheBritish genderresults Columbia identityfor is2017 the and onlyhighlight gender prov- severalexpression,”ince in areas Canada ofsaid concern withoutHorgan. for ame,” human said Mackenzie. rightsBritish commission. Columbia is Thethe only previous prov- incecommission“There in Canada is awas continued dismantledwithout decrease a inhuman 2002. in homerightsOnly asupportcommission. complaint-driven service Theand adult previoustribunal day programscommissionremains. as well was asdismantled an increasing in 2002. lack ofOnly “Buildingaffordability a complaint-driven a betterfor senior B.C. renters,”tribunal that is sheremains.vibrant said. and full of opportunity starts with“These“Building making results a surebetter should everyone B.C. also that befeels ofis concernvibrantwelcome and to to the fullbe government aof part opportunity of that as future.lack starts of supportwithNot only making in must these wesure areas address everyone will drivediscrimin somefeels- seniorswelcomeation when into to residentialbeand a partwhere of care itthat happens, which future. is aNotwe more mustonly costly mustalso intervention weeducate, address reach discrimin and out,one- thatationand takeis whenleast proactive preferredand where steps by itseniors. to happens, address We knowwesystemic must there inequalities,” also are educate, up to 15said reachpercent Attorney out, of seniorsandGeneral take living David proactive in Eby. residential steps to care address who couldsystemic“I havelive inequalities,” in asked the community Parliamentary said Attorney with properGeneralSecretary supports.” David Ravi Eby.Kahlon to lead the publicWith“I have consultation19 percentasked ofParliamentary seniorprocess house and- holdsSecretaryI look renting, forward Ravi theKahlon to affordability receiving to lead gapthehis continuesrecommendations.”public consultation to widen. process and I look“TheThe consultationeconomicforward toreality receivingprocess for seniors willhis whorecommendations.”include rent both is onlinethe most and face-to-facedire,” said Mackenzie.meetingsThe consultation with British processColumbians, will includestakeholders“We knowboth online thatand seniors andhuman face-to-face have rights the lowestmeetingsexperts, median and with will Britishincome seek toColumbians, oflearn any what age For a special discount, please mention cohortstakeholdersa renewed over human25 andand we rightshuman know commis that rights the- that you are a member of BC FORUM povertysionexperts, could rateand look forwill seniors like.seek toConsultation increased learn what by 24%ais renewedto sincecontinue 2005, human through the rightslargest the commis increaseautumn- ofsionmonths, any could age with lookcohort. legislation like. The Consultation expected ability ofto seniors,isfollow to continue in particularly 2018. through those the agedautumn 80 andmonths,The greater labour with to movementlegislation move to lessexpectedpraised expen the to- sivefollowannouncement. neighbourhoods in 2018. is very limited. Seniors must be located near transit The labour movement praised the The Advocate, Autumn 2017 – 13 announcement. The Advocate, Spring 2018 – 7 The Advocate, Autumn 2017 – 13 Advocate.Vol20.No3.Autumn.2017 - final.indd 13 9/12/2017 10:21:56 PM

Advocate.Vol20.No3.Autumn.2017 - final.indd 13 9/12/2017 10:21:56 PM PUBLIC HEALTH CARE Moving quickly to strengthen public health care for people

hose who seek to profit by bill- ing patients for medically Tnecessary services now face new penalties. The NDP government has brought into force sections of the Medicare Protection Amendment Act, 2003, which were never enforced by the previous government. With implementation of these new provisions, government has clarified the rules around extra bill- ing, authorized the Medical Services Commission to refund beneficiaries in cases of extra billing and set out clear consequences for breaking those rules. Any person who extra bills may now be required to refund the fee paid, face fines of up to $10,000 for a first offence, and $20,000 for a second offence if convicted of wrongly char- ging patients. Practitioners may also be de-enrolled from MSP, making them unable to bill the public health-care system. Six private clinics are being audited this year to ensure they are not extra billing. Health Minister answered questions from the floor, and spoke individually with many attendees before and after a public meeting held in Sechelt this spring. “The failure of the previous government to enforce the law has future years. pledged to end the unfair tax by cost patients millions of dollars. This • Elimination of PharmaCare Jan. 1, 2020. has to stop,” said Health Minister deductibles for families with net “There’s not a government in Adrian Dix. incomes of $30,000 or less, starting Canada that’s taking the action we’re The government has also Jan. 1, 2019, and reduced deduct- taking to support public health care,” announced: ibles for families with net incomes Dix told a crowd of 150 in Sechelt. under $45,000. • A dramatic increase in hip, knee He also said the government could and complex dental surgeries, and • More than half a billion dollars not rip up a contract the previous a strategy to address other areas over three years to improve servi- government signed with Trellis to with long waits by investing in ces to seniors, including home provide residential care beds, but had more surgeries and operating room support and residential care. taken action to ensure workers’ jobs efficiencies. • A renewed long-term commitment and wages would be protected. • Funding to cut wait times for to UBC’s Therapeutics Initiative Residential care is co-pay, and not diagnoses by providing 37,000 which saves lives with independ- part of Canada’s public health care additional magnetic reson- ent reviews of prescription drugs. system. No public beds were built ance imaging (MRI) exams this • Cut MSP premiums in half, under the previous government; year, with further increases in increased premium assistance, and about 70 percent are privately owned. 8 – The Advocate, Spring 2018 YOUR HEALTH DEPRESCRIBING Are you taking too many drugs?

By Agnes Jackman everyone is. BC FORUM Regional Representative The most at n February 8th & 9th, 2018, I risk though are had the opportunity to attend, people who take Oas the BC FORUM represent- lots of medica- ative, the Canadian Deprescribing tion, women, Network’s 2018 National Stakeholder and people over Summit on Medication Safety for the age of 65. Older Men and Women, which was Some of the held in Montreal, Quebec. common harms For those of you who might be are drug inter- wondering at this point: actions, memory “Deprescribing is the planned and problems, falls supervised process of reducing or and fractures stopping medications that may no and hospital longer be of benefit or may be caus- visits. ing harm. Seniors in “The goal is to reduce medication Canada are burden and harm, while maintaining prescribed an or improving quality of life.” (CaDeN) average of seven medications and The purpose of the Summit was one out of four to provide a networking oppor- take at least ten tunity and forum for dialogue medications. among diverse stakeholders includ- ing seniors’ advocates, health care The CaDeN providers and policy makers from instructs that across Canada and to teach the atten- seniors should dees how to leverage the activities of note that with Agnes Jackman is a BC FORUM regional representative and dele- the Canadian Deprescribing Network age, some medi- gate to the Vancouver and District Labour Council. (CaDeN) in their areas. cations can representatives. The presenters shared successful become unnecessary or even harmful strategies from different provinces because of short-term or long-term • Use MedStopper to assess whether and territories for reducing the use side effects and drug interaction. you are taking any risky meds: of opioids and sedative-hypnotics $419 million is the estimated public http://medstopper.com/ among older men and women. spending on potentially harmful prescriptions in Canada. • Download information on how The question that the CaDeN is you can stop certain meds: https:// If you are asking yourself what to wanting people to ask themselves is, www.deprescribingnetwork.ca/ do, the CaDeN has these suggestions: “Am I, or someone that I care for, on useful-resources too many (or the wrong) drugs?” • Educate yourself about what medi- cations you are taking and why. • Learn more about deprescrib- It is also asking people to consider ing on CaDeN’s website: https:// alternate forms of treatment to • Engage in a discussion with your www,deprescribingnetwork.ca/ manage and alleviate their health health care provider about depre- problems, with the consultation of scribing options and alternate • Ask questions, stay informed, their health care providers where therapies. be proactive, and participate in appropriate. • Spread the word about depre- making smart choices. As for who is at risk of the harm- scribing to friends and family, There is a link http://deprescrib- ful effects of too many medications, advocacy groups and government ing.org on the BC FORUM website. The Advocate, Spring 2018 – 9 TOWARDS A BETTER BC A budget for ordinary people

he BC NDP government’s first full budget charts a new course Twith bold investments in hous- ing and childcare that will make life better and more affordable for work- ing people, says the BC Federation of Labour (BCFED). “For 16 years the BC Liberals made decisions that benefited their rich and powerful friends while they piled higher costs on working families and reduced public services that so many people rely on,” says Irene Lanzinger, President of the BCFED. “Budget 2018 provides concrete action on housing and expanded childcare that will reduce some of the most significant cost pressures that “Budgets are not only about the bottom line, they should be about people,” says Finance working families face.” Minister . “That’s why British Columbians are at the centre of every choice we have made in Budget 2018.” The $1 billion earmarked for expanded childcare services is the ferry fares, and reduced Pharmacare connect those who do not have first new social program implemented deductibles for low income British a family doctor with team-based in our province for decades, says Columbians that will lower the price primary care. Lanzinger. “New benefits, lower fees, of prescription drugs. Other smaller budget measures and added childcare spaces all add up The budget makes significant include an additional $1 million to long overdue relief for more than investments in public health care, in each of the next three years 150,000 BC families,” she says. with new funding of $548 million for tougher enforcement of basic over three years to improve care for employment laws covering non- “It’s a big first step to creating seniors and $150 million to help union workers. a universal system for our prov- ince. That’s good for kids, good for families, and good for the economy.” On housing, Lanzinger says she’s impressed with the NDP govern- ment’s comprehensive plan to deal Senior Citizens’ with housing supply by building more affordable housing, targeting unethical speculation that drives up Repair Service prices, and enhancing protection for We provide low-cost minor house repairs, renovations and maintenance for tenants. seniors 55 years and over and for people with disabilities. “With a record investment in Services include plumbing, carpentry, electrical work, gas fitting, painting, housing to make it more affordable yard work and general handyman services. and more available, this budget lays All services are guaranteed for 30 days and offered by retired or semi-retired a strong foundation to meet the chal- experienced tradespeople. lenge over time.” Sponsored by the Plumbers and Pipefitters Union Local 170. The budget is full of concrete actions to make life more affordable, Office hours are 9 AM to 12 Noon, Monday to Friday. including the full elimination of MSP Serves Metro Vancouver. Phone: 604 529-1100 premiums, a freeze and reductions on 10 – The Advocate, Spring 2018 BC FORUM AGM Changes to EI benefits for family caregivers Annual meeting hanges to Employment Insurance You are cordially invited to attend the C(EI) benefits provide support for workers who take time off to provide BC FORUM Annual General Meeting: care to a critically ill or injured adult family member. 9:30 am – 1:00 pm, Wed. June 27, 2018 The caregiver will have access to a UFCW 1518, 350 Columbia St. New Westminster new benefit of up to 15 weeks. Please note that this is a scent free building In addition, both medical doctors and nurse practitioners are now able • Come early to visit the display booths, and chat with other to sign the required medical certifi- members, guests and directors. Coffee will be ready at 9:00 am. cates. This previously required the • All current members may debate and vote on resolutions. Mem- signature of a specialist. berships and renewals will be accepted at the sign-in desk. Doctors and nurse practitioners • The BC FORUM board will update you on activities over the past can now also sign applications for year, and plans for the future. the compassionate care benefit. This provides up to 26 weeks of EI benefits • Irene Lanzinger, President of the BC Federation of Labour and to care for a family member at signifi- Chair of BC FORUM, will address current issues facing working cant risk of dying within that period. families and retirees. • SPECIAL RESOLUTION to adopt a Constitution and Bylaws for Changes to CPP transitioning to the new BC Societies Act: death benefit Whereas the BC Provincial Government introduced a new BC Soci- eties Act, effective November 28th, 2016 and; ederal and provincial finance Whereas the new act requires all pre-existing societies, i.e. British ministers have set the death F Columbia Federation of Retired Union Members, BC FORUM, to file benefit provided under the Canada a transition application within 2 years of the act coming into effect Pension Plan at a flat rate of $2,500. and; The benefit was previously on a Whereas the transition filing must contain a Constitution and By- sliding scale – tied to how long and laws that are consistent, and confirm with the new act; how much a worker had paid into Therefore be it resolved that British Columbia Federation of Retired the CPP – to a maximum of $2,500. Union Members, BC FORUM adopt the new Constitution and By- The change will benefit surviving laws as recommended by the BC FORUM board of directors. family members in cases where the The proposed Constitution and Bylaws will be available at the benefit would have been less. Annual General Meeting. If you wish to receive a copy in advance However, it does not come close of the AGM, please contact the BC FORUM office and a copy will to covering the average $6,000 cost be mailed or e-mailed to you as you prefer. of a funeral. • You will be eligible to win great door prizes generouosly do- It’s estimated the death benefit nated by our allies and supporters. would have been about $5,500 if it had not been capped two decades ago. • Our location features easy access via public transit – about a Hassan Yussuff, President of block from Columbia Skytrain station – and is on major Columbia the Canadian Labour Congress, Street bus routes. Street parking is limited to two hours so if you welcomed the move to ensure no come by car, please use the public parkade. one is denied the benefit, but said the finance ministers should have Please mark your calendar today, done more. and feel free to bring a guest! “The numbers need to come up,” said Yussuff. The Advocate, Spring 2018 – 11 DAVE’S CORNER Cannabis for seniors?

By David Porteous One owner states it’s not about t least one cannabis club is getting people stoned, it’s not a high, gearing up to take advantage it just makes you feel good! Aof what it sees as a significant As Canada enters a new era of market among seniors. The club is legalizing cannabis, in the health predicting up to 80 percent of their and welfare world “we” are waiting customers will be over 55 years old. to see if there will be a positive effect The owner states many seniors in lowering dependence on the over with anxiety, inflammation or other use of prescription drugs. ailments have been asking questions The insurance industry is watching for years. closely to see what happens. He adds that with legalization approaching fast, education will play Some carriers have already started a role in making sure a newcomer to to cover cannabis under benefit plans cannabis doesn’t end up having a bad when added as a coverage by plan experience. sponsors. Stores will start to produce and David Porteous is a charter member sell products like soap, bath bombs, David Porteous of the Canadian Initiative for Elder tea, topical creams, cookies and CBD, which is the non-psychoactive Planning Studies and holds an Elder more, infused with cannabidiol, or element of cannabis. Planning Councilor Designation. Health Care and Dental Plans Exclusively for BC FORUM members and their families • Retiree health, or health with dental, • Estate planning. exclusively for BC FORUM members. • Registered Education Savings Plans for • Coverage for BC FORUM members still grandchildren (RESP). working who need benefits. • Guaranteed issue life insurance. • Individual health and dental plans that • Out of province/country travel medical cover pre-existing conditions for retiring • Tax Free Savings Accounts (TFSA). BC FORUM members and their families. • Staff are members of USW or UFCW. Union products and services are just a phone call away: Metro Vancouver: 604 941-7430, Ext. 108 or 223 • Interior: 250 861-5200, Ext. 108 or 223 Toll free: 1 855 894-8111 [email protected] • www.weconsultants.ca

12 – The Advocate, Spring 2018 CANADA POST Door to door mail delivery protected – mostly

By Marion Pollack n January 24 2018 Carla Qualtrough, the Federal OMinister of Public Services and Procurement, announced an end to the program to convert home delivery to community mailboxes. This is good news. However, 840,000 households that had their door to door mail delivery ended since 2014 will not have it restored. In 2016 a Liberal-stacked House of Commons committee recommended that Canada Post come up with a plan to reinstate home delivery for households that had been converted. Minister Qualtrough’s announce- ment ignores that recommendation. This Liberal announcement to permanently stop the Harper era plan to end door to door mail delivery is directly attributable to the campaign that postal unions, organizations like BC FORUM, community groups and Hundreds of thousands of Canadians lost home mail delivery under the Harper govern- many individuals carried out. ment. The fight to restore this needed service continues. BC FORUM was a strong voice representing seniors who did not want to lose their door to door mail Mathyssen introduces motion delivery. The fight isn’t over. calling for postal banking This winter people from coast to rene Mathyssen, the NDP’s Canada Post critic, has put forward a private coast found it difficult to get mail Imember’s motion calling on the Liberals to strike a special committee to from their community mailboxes. examine and recommend a plan for a federal postal banking system. Seniors and persons with disabilities “(This motion) will allow us once and for all to move forward with a plan continue to face hardships to access that serves Canadians. Postal banking is sustainable, profitable and equitable, community mailboxes. and will provide service where the big banks have abandoned people,” said Determination and hard work Mathyssen. saved door to door mail delivery. Mike Palacek, National President of the Canadian Union of Postal Workers Now, we need to continue the strug- (CUPW) supported Mathyssen’s initiative. gle to ensure that those 840,000 “A postal bank has been tested and used very successfully in over 60 coun- households get their door to door tries around the world. It would better serve Canadians as big banks are mail delivery restored. abandoning so many communities across the country and would generate Marion Pollack is a member of the BC new revenues for Canada Post. It’s a no brainer. It’s time for our legislators FORUM Board of Directors. to propose a plan to implement it,” he said. The Advocate, Spring 2018 – 13 IN MEMORIAM Lorraine Logan 1944 – 2018 ith the passing of Lorraine Logan, older and retired Wworkers and so many others have lost a true champion,” says Diane Wood, President of BC FORUM. “Whether she was at the micro- phone addressing a rally or quietly lobbying decision makers, she was relentless in pushing for a more civil society.” “In so many ways, Lorraine Logan made time for others and worked tire- lessly to improve their lives,” said Wood. “We miss you sister.” A capacity crowd celebrated Lorraine’s many contributions and activism at a gathering at the Operating Engineers’ Hall in Burnaby in February. Stephanie Smith, President of the BCGEU, described Lorraine as “an activist through and through. Right up until the end, she was a champion of workers’ rights, LGBTQ+ rights, women’s rights and seniors’ rights.” Lorraine Logan As a young woman, Lorraine was Advocate photo by Bob Akester an elite athlete. She represented Canada on the national women’s field continued to lead the way in shining committee to push for improved hockey team. When she retired from a light on injustices and campaigning access for seniors and people with playing, she continued to support for a better world: disabilities. young women as an internationally • She stayed connected to her • She was active in the Seniors certified umpire in the sport. union’s fightback and advocacy Services Society of BC, and Seniors Lorraine’s work career spanned 31 campaigns. on Guard for Medicare. years in the BC public service, where • She served as a BC FORUM • And she was active in federal and she was very active in her union. She Regional Representative. provincial elections. was elected as shop steward, local executive member, labour council • She was President of both the “With her energy, enthusiasm delegate, cross component commit- New Vista Housing Society, and and commitment, Lorraine led tee representative, and served on the Council of Senior Citizens’ by example and motivated many the Multi Union Pride Committee. Organizations of BC (COSCO). others,” said Wood. BCGEU convention delegates said • Through COSCO, she lobbied for “Her spirit is with us – as is her thank you by voting to make her a changes to the DriveABLE assess- expectation that each of us will do Life Member. ment for older drivers. the right thing and do our best to After retirement, Lorraine • She served on a TransLink help each other.” 14 – The Advocate, Spring 2018 TOGETHER WE’RE STRONG Strengthening BC FORUM has Renew your membership never been more – and sign up a friend important lease have a look at the mailing label on this edition of The Advocate Please encourage your to check whether your membership is now due for renewal. If your Pmembership is about to expire, you can renew by mailing the coupon friends to join our team below to BC FORUM, #200 - 5118 Joyce St., Vancouver, B.C. V5R 4H1. hrough our unions, before we You can also renew your membership on-line at www.bcforum.ca. Tretired, we’ve all seen the bene- We also ask for your help in reaching out to people who are nearing retire- fits of collective action. Our voices ment or have already retired. Like all membership-based organizations, we are strongest when we stand together are all stronger when as many people as possible work together. in solidarity. Remember that BC FORUM actively welcomes workers who are 50 and That’s where BC FORUM comes in. older, so don’t be shy about encouraging your friends and family members We are the only provincial organiza- to join us, even if they are still in the workforce. tion that represents union members Solidarity makes us strong. who have retired or are nearing retirement. We are an integral part of the labour movement, with formal BC FORUM has always provided free $2,500 representation in leadership bodies, Accidental Death and Dismemberment insur- and maintain strong links with prov- ance coverage to members. incial and national seniors’ groups. We are proud to now extend this coverage Together, we can make a differ- Great to members’ spouses at the low cost of $5 per ence for ourselves and our families. year. All you have to do is check the appropriate Please encourage friends, colleagues deal! box when you apply or renew your member- and family members to join us ship. BC FORUM’s AD&D coverage is valid until using the form below, or on-line at you reach age 86, the maximum age we were www.bcforum.ca. able to negotiate. Please check your expiry dateí on the mailing label. BCGEU, HSA, MoveUp, CEU, CUPE 386, UFCW, Heat and # Frost, UNIFOR 2301 and LiUNA 1611 pay first year dues for qualified members. B.C. Federation of Retired Union Members • #200 - 5118 Joyce St., Vancouver, V5R 4H1 604 688-4565 • 1 800 896-5678 • Fax: 604 430-5917 • [email protected] • www.bcforum.ca Membership: q Application q Renewal q New address

Name: |__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__| LAST FIRST INITIAL Address: |__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__| STREET ADDRESS CITY POSTAL CODE Phone: |__|__|__| |__|__|__|__|__|__|__| E-mail: |__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__| Union: |__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__| Date of birth:* |__|__| |__|__| |__|__|__|__| DAY MONTH YEAR Spouse’s name: |__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__| Spouse’s birth date:* |__|__| |__|__| |__|__|__|__| DAY MONTH YEAR Single membership: q $20 - 1 year q $49 - 3 years With AD&D for spouse: q $25 - 1 year q $64 - 3 years Payment: q Cheque q Visa q MC Expiry: |__|__| / |__|__| SIGNATURE Card number: |__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__|__| Date of application: |__|__| |__|__| |__|__|__|__| DAY MONTH YEAR * Required for AD&D group insurance coverage to age 86. The Advocate, Spring 2018 – 15 THE LAST WORD You can defer MSP premiums cut in property tax eople who are 55 or older, a surviv- half, soon to vanish Ping spouse of any age, and people with disabilities may be able to defer edical Services Plan (MSP) premiums were cut in half on Jan. 1 this the property taxes on their principal year. Finance Minister Carole James said it marked an important residence. Mstep toward improving fairness for all British Columbians. In essence, the province gives you “MSP premiums are unfair and place a significant burden on British a low interest loan – currently 1.2 Columbians,” James said. “I’m proud that we are moving away from these percent – to pay the taxes. Interest is regressive fees and creating a more equitable system.” adjusted in April and October each The NDP campaigned on eliminating this regressive tax within four years, year. Interest is only charged on the but has since cut a year from that timeline. The MSP will be gone as of Jan. principal amount; there is no interest 1, 2020. on interest. A restrictive lien is placed on your property to ensure the loan is Premium assistance program improved repaid when the home is sold. In addition to the 50 percent rate cut, the income threshold for full exemp- There is an application fee of $60, tion from MSP premiums under the premium assistance program was raised and an annual $10 renewal fee. by $2,000 at the start of this year. To qualify, your current taxes must This change means no premiums will be paid by: be fully paid up. • An individual earning up to $26,000 per year. For more details about the program • A couple earning up to $29,000. and how to apply, search for “Defer your property taxes” on the BC • A senior couple earning up to $35,000. government website, or telephone • A single parent with two children earning up to $32,000. 1 888 355-2700 toll free. • A couple with two children earning up to $35,000. On a sliding scale, premium assistance is available for families whose Information for adjusted net income is less than $42,000. Adjusted net income is defined as your net income for last year, as deter- retired workers mined by the Canada Revenue Agency, less deductions for age, family size, • Protect yourself against scam disability, and any income from a registered disability savings plan. artists with info from the Canadian You can learn more and apply for MSP premium assistance on the govern- Centre for Elder Law. Google “Be ment website, or in person at any Service BC location. a Savvy Senior Fraud Protection.” • The People’s Law School has summarized benefits available New address? New e-mail address? to BC seniors. Search the web Please send your new address and e-mail address to BC Forum. for “When I’m 64: Benefits for You can mail in the form on page 15, or you can reach us by telephone Seniors” to download or order a or e-mail: 1.800.896.5678 (toll free), 604.688.4565, [email protected] free copy. • The Council of Senior Citizens’ Organizations of B.C. (COSCO) offers free workshops to seniors groups. Visit www.coscobc.org for a complete list of topics. • The Deprescribing Network – deprescribing.org – offers infor- mation about safely reducing 41946512 medications that may no longer Please check the expiry date on your label. Is your membership due for renewal? be needed. 16 – The Advocate, Spring 2018