Welcome to the Regina & Area Branch of the National Association of Federal Retirees. In addition to our regular events, from time to time you'll find information here on Association advocacy work as well as national events.
This past year has been challenging for the branch with COVID restrictions, new Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) rules for not-for-profit organizations and continued obstacles for our Strategic Plan for Recruitment and Retention.
There have been opportunities to explore operational transitions from, and to, all in-person meetings, Zoom and hybrid meetings. The Annual Members’ Meeting resumed in the National Capital Region June 2022. The District Directors’ annual gathering resumed after two years and the Branch Services Coordinator’s position was filled after a two-year vacancy. Several small branches across the country have ceased operations.
More changes are on the horizon. The Public Service Health Care Plan will switch operations from Sun Life to Canada Life in July 2023.
The National Association of Federal Retirees continues to support the development of health care improvements, such as Pharmacare, for older adults and was successful in achieving a 6.8% increase in superannuation. The largest cost of living increase in my time.
Our branch has enjoyed responsible financial management through many terms but I dare say the CRA changes for not-for-profit organizations have complicated financial management significantly. We are extremely fortunate to have Donna Miller at the helm, with professional financial acumen developed throughout her career. Big thank you Donna.
For continuing stewardship, counsel and sage advice, thank you also to Joe Blayone, membership and communications; Judy Harris, secretary; Kathy Lye, past president, and Andre Nogue, both decades long board members; Richard Simpson, advocacy; Vern Anderson, Cheryl Thauberger, Meg Brookes and Lynn Neithercut.
We have suffered a significant loss on the board due to the unfortunate and unexpected passing of Vice President Brian Harris who led the advocacy file prior to the arrival of Richard Simpson, and represented the branch on the Saskatchewan Seniors Mechanism along with Andre Nogue, continuing. Brian was also a major lead and contributor to the Support for Older Adults project. Most importantly, as a friend, Brian is missed.
This year we celebrate the 60th Anniversary of the National Association of Federal Retirees. Our national president Roy Goodall is expected to attend our fall supper on Sept. 25 2023.
Our focus is to revive the Membership Recruitment and Retention program developed with the leadership of Bill Morse. This includes gathering members and potential members to explore opportunities for support and development of members. For example, we are looking at options to offer a Mature Driver Refresher Course through the Saskatchewan Safety Council. Gatherings for 60th Anniversary activities, reviving the fall supper, and a general members’ meeting. We are certainly open, at nafr@sasktel.net, for other suggestions from general members.
Membership is open to federal retirees, judges, RCMP retirees, veterans and spouses. It doesn’t appear to be common knowledge that membership is open to potential members prior to retirement. We continue to explore ways of informing potential members. It has become more challenging since few departments offer opportunities, such as pre-retirement courses, to address gatherings. We wish to affirm a more rounded approach to retirement to include support for older adults and support by older adult volunteers. There are so many opportunities for personal growth and fulfillment.
It has been a pleasure, albeit a little hectic at times, to serve as the president of a great team.
Doug Sutherland
President