Federal Retirees’ Statement on Budget 2025
Today’s federal budget shows some advancement but falls short in fully addressing the challenges posed by Canada’s aging population. The National Association of Federal Retirees (Federal Retirees), representing over 170,000 members nationwide—including more than 60,000 veterans of the Canadian Armed Forces and RCMP and their families—expresses concern over the lack of significant action on their key advocacy priorities.
“This is a pivotal moment for older Canadians, who are feeling the impacts of rising costs of living,” said Anthony Pizzino, CEO of the National Association of Federal Retirees. “Federal Retirees will be delving into the details in the coming days, but what’s clear already is that Canada needs a stronger, strategic plan to ensure every older adult can age well and retire with financial security.”
The budget also includes cuts to the federal public service. Given the current fiscal uncertainty, Canadians rely on a well-funded and effective public service to provide the essential programs and support they depend on.
Federal Retirees welcomed some positive steps in the budget:
- Commitment to strengthen retirement benefits for front-line workers.
- Improving the timeliness of services for veterans.
“We welcome the government’s commitment to strengthen front-line workers’ retirement and improve the timeliness of services for veterans,” said Pizzino.
Additionally, the budget proposes consultations on potential changes to public-sector retirement benefits that will impact future retirees.
Author’s summary: The National Association of Federal Retirees acknowledges some progress in Budget 2025 but stresses the urgent need for a comprehensive strategy to support older Canadians’ financial security and well-being.