Pensions & Benefits Law
Submitted by Section Chair, Colin Galinski
Summary of Meetings
Number of Meetings Held: 3
November 28, 2013
Guest Speaker: Michael Peters, Deputy Superintendent of Pension
Meeting Title/Topic: Year in Review
Synopsis: Michael has reviewed the developments in the administration of pensions over the last year. In particular, Michael has provided an update on the development of the Regulations as well as the process by which they will be introduced and will take questions from the group.
April 1, 2014
Guest Speaker: Marko Vesely, Partner Lawson Lundell LLP
Meeting Title/Topic: The Limitation Act (British Columbia)
Synopsis: Marko has spoken to the group about the Limitation Act (B.C.) which came into force on June 1, 2013, with a focus on how that Act could affect disputes brought by or against plan sponsors and administrators. Marko addressed how the new Limitation Act affects collection activities of benefit plan administrators including determining when the applicable limitation period will begin to run for those activities
June 5, 2014
Guest Speaker: N/A
Meeting Title/Topic: Group Discussion and Year-End Social
Synopsis: Group discussion of pension reform matters in BC, the state of pensions generally, and a year-end social gathering.
Comments and Observations of the Chair
Our Section had another successful year, with members providing positive feedback on the content of our meetings as well as the great opportunities to speak with other lawyers in our area. We have made the presentation by the pension regulator (FICOM) an annual event, and it is a highlight of our year. Our Section executive is a close group that communicates well. Overall, I am pleased to be a part of this CBA Section and am enjoying my second year as Chair.