Employment insurance reform in progress

(Jun. 17/08) Canada’s employment insurance (EI) system moved one step closer to autonomy and accountability when the federal budget bill – which includes a recommendation to establish a separate EI crown corporation to oversee the fund – came before a Senate committee for review in late May.

CRFA appeared before the Senate’s Standing Committee on National Finance on May 29 to outline its support for the creation of the Canada Employment Insurance Financing Board and a stand-alone EI fund to be administered at arm’s length from government.  CRFA also make the case for increased government contribution, arguing that it is time for the government to once again share in the cost of the program as a means of drawing down the $54 billion notional surplus created by employer and employee over-contributions.

A similar presentation was made to the House of Commons Standing Committee on Finance  on May 26.  If the budget bill is passed by the Senate, it is expected that the new Canada Employment Insurance Financing Board will be established this fall.

CRFA Documents: