SDB class actions rejected

[Mike]

The Supreme Court of British Columbia dismissed the claims of both the Public Service and Canadian Forces class actions regarding the Supplementary Death Benefits (SDB). These actions challenged the age-related benefit reduction as discriminatory and contrary to the Charter of Rights and Freedom. The plaintiffs' lawyers are reviewing the judgment and will be considering their options. Further information can be found on their Web site:

http://www.branmac.com/Pages/deathbenefits.html

The judgment issued on January 19, 2006 is posted at:

http://www.branmac.com/go/download/JGarsonWithlervAG.pdf