McMaster responds to elimination of mandatory retirement

In December 2006, changes to the Ontario Human Rights Code will take effect, resulting in the elimination of mandatory retirement in Ontario. With the implementation of this new legislation, employees will have the option to continue to work beyond age 65.

“In preparation for this legislative change, McMaster University, like most Ontario employers, has reviewed and updated its human resources policies and benefits provisions to clarify how the elimination of mandatory retirement will impact employees,” states Karen Belaire, vice-president, administration. “We have taken some time over the past number of months to consult our benefit providers and discuss these issues with our employee groups.”

Employees who continue to work beyond age 65 will notice some changes to their benefit coverage: They will remain eligible for extended health and dental benefits, as well as salary continuance (or sick bank as per their appropriate collective agreement) and will continue pension contributions as normal.

Long-Term Disability plan participation will end at age 65, while Group Life and Out of Country travel benefits will continue until age 69 (with limited coverage after this date).

For complete details on how this change will impact employee benefits along with your pension/retirement and WSIB coverage, please click here.

For inquiries about benefits, workplace accommodation and WSIA issues, please contact Employee Work-Life Support Services at benefits@mcmaster.ca or ext. 23743.

For inquiries about pension, retirement and post-retirement benefit issues, please contact Retirement Support Services at pension@mcmaster.ca or ext. 24570.

To learn more about Bill 211, please visit the Ontario Ministry of Labour website.