By concentrating on one meeting at a time, our members can make a difference in federal policy.
Across Canada, Federal Retirees members have always been the driving force behind grassroots advocacy — showing up, speaking out and representing association priorities. In today’s rapidly evolving political climate under the new federal government, the importance of these efforts has never been greater.
The new government has brought with it a renewed focus on fiscal discipline and evidence-based policy-making. While this opens new avenues for meaningful engagement, it also presents challenges for ensuring that the voices of older Canadians, especially retirees, remain at the forefront of national conversations. To keep advocacy priorities visible and urgent, Federal Retirees’ advocacy must be strategic and organized, and, above all, personal.
Grassroots advocacy is critical
Elected officials are the architects of policy. Their decisions directly affect pensions, health care and retirement security. But policy doesn’t shift in response to a single email or meeting. Real influence comes from relationships, especially with MPs from all parties. While Prime Minister Mark Carney’s caucus drives the government agenda, opposition parties are actively shaping public discourse and committee work. Building relationships across the political spectrum, particularly in a minority government setting, ensures the Federal Retirees’ message resonates regardless of who is in power tomorrow.
Even small acts like a congratulatory note, a quick check-in or acknowledging an MP’s efforts on an issue can help lay the foundation for trust and future collaboration.
MP meetings in the Carney era
The best meetings are those that feel like conversations, not presentations. Research the MP you’re meeting with: what committees they sit on, which policies they’ve championed and what matters in their riding. Pay attention to how their work aligns or conflicts with the government’s broader agenda.
Bring a one-pager with key requests, but most important, bring your story. Under a government that values data and measured discourse, weaving personal experience with evidence is one of the most persuasive tools you have. While there is a premium on policy discipline, that doesn’t mean MPs don’t connect with stories.
Humanizing an issue often makes it easier for them to carry that message forward in caucus or cabinet.
Try to offer practical solutions, not just criticisms. The government is managing complex policy files — from affordability to health-care modernization — and MPs are more likely to act on ideas that are locally relevant and ones on which they can act.
Avoid being combative when the conversation gets off track. If an MP doesn’t agree with your position, redirect the conversation rather than confronting them. The idea is to find common ground and plant a seed for future discussions.
Not every MP will immediately understand or support advocacy positions. When challenged, it’s important to stay calm and change the subject using local stories or riding-specific data.
Under this government, political messaging tends to be tightly controlled, so offering material that helps MPs make your case within existing policy frameworks is a smart tactic.
Remember: many MPs are looking for wins they can bring home to their constituents. Making your advocacy issue one they can champion locally is a good idea.
The real work happens after the meeting
What happens after the meeting often determines how successful it was. Send a thank-you note. Follow up with anything you promised to share. Keep the lines of communication open, especially as the government’s priorities unfold in the coming months and years.
The bottom line
This government represents a new chapter in policy-making; it values discipline, innovation and collaboration. Federal Retirees must meet the government with the same seriousness. By conducting meetings, sharing stories and staying true to the association’s strategy, you can ensure the needs of older Canadians remain a priority.