Federal Retirees CEO Anthony Pizzino and senior advisor Patrick Imbeau appeared before the Senate Committee on National Security, Defence and Veterans Affairs to discuss Bill C-15.
Federal Retirees CEO Anthony Pizzino, joined by Patrick Imbeau, senior advisor, retirement security, appeared before the Standing Senate Committee on National Security, Defence and Veterans Affairs to share the association’s perspective on elements of Bill C-15 related to veterans and RCMP members. Bill C-15 is the Budget 2025 Implementation Act, No. 1, putting into law several measures announced in the federal budget, including changes affecting veterans’ benefits.
Pizzino emphasized the importance of the committee’s attention to these issues and explained that the proposed changes carry real implications for the financial security and well-being of veterans and their families. He highlighted that disability benefits play an important role in supporting RCMP veterans, especially with rising living costs, and encouraged careful consideration of how any changes may affect those who rely on this support.
He also spoke about pension benefits for veterans living in long-term care, noting the bill's measures would leave many paying out of pocket for years of overcharges for meals and accommodation. He stressed the importance of fairness and transparency in veterans’ long-term care costs.
Throughout the discussion, Federal Retirees underscored its long-standing advocacy priorities: strengthening retirement security, improving access to care and promoting fairness for veterans and RCMP members. As the Senate continues its study of Bill C-15, the association remains committed to further conversations that help ensure veterans’ needs are well understood and thoughtfully addressed.