The Honourable Graham Steele
Minister of Finance
PO Box 187,
1723 Hollis St.,
Halifax, NS B3J 2N3

Dear Minister:

Many of the concerns identified in Nova Scotia's March 5th pension consultation document relate to defined benefit plans. Discussions with employers lead Canada's life and health insurance companies to believe that, going forward, defined contribution arrangements are likely to be more viable. Consequently, the attached comments and recommendations focus on simple changes to expand and enhance the coverage, adequacy and security of pensions and other forms of retirement income plans. We look forward to the opportunity to discuss these proposals and the related issues with you and your officials should you have any questions.Yours sincerely,

Ron Sanderson
Director, Policyholder Taxation and Pensions