Hon. Fernand Robichaud:

Honourable senators, I do not want to pass up this opportunity to say a few words about this inquiry. I have become part of the age group that benefits from these programs; a number of my friends are in this age group and the situation this age group finds itself in has always been a concern of mine. I am particularly aware of the thousands of people who have worked hard and contributed to the Canada Pension Plan and are not receiving the benefits to which they are entitled.  

I would like to commend Senator Callbeck for placing this inquiry on the Orders of the Day because the number of seniors who are not getting their due is too high. The statistics are reliable and the fate of these people should compel us to take action.

Honourable senators will probably remember that the Leader of the Government in the Senate unfairly accused Senator Callbeck of being misinformed, instead of welcoming her comments as an opportunity to resolve a deplorable situation that affects far too many seniors.

I believe, honourable senators, that it is high time for this government to stop blaming others for existing problems and start taking its responsibilities instead of trying to justify its inaction.

I am currently reading the ninth report of the Standing Senate Committee on National Finance entitled, Report on the Financial Security for Seniors: Entitlements and Retroactivity Provisions under the Canada Pension Plan. I intend to say more about the matter to elaborate on my comments. I therefore move that further debate be adjourned to the next sitting of the Senate for the time I have remaining.

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