FSNA - Join in! By Craig MacDonald

Craig MacDonald

Safeguarding the pension, health and dental care benefits of federal retirees

Written by Craig MacDonald
Former FSNA Ottawa Branch President

FSNA: Who Are We?

The Federal Superannuates National Association is the national not-for-profit association of retired federal employees, their spouses and survivors, as well as future pensioners (working employees). With more than 130,000 members and 83 branches across Canada, FSNA is recognized by the Government of Canada as the major representative of pensioners from the Canadian Forces, the Public Service of Canada, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, and of federally appointed judges. The Association maintains a National Office in Ottawa with a small core of paid staff. The executive of all 83 branches and National Officers are unpaid volunteers. Association policy is set at triennial conventions by members delegated by branches.

The Ottawa Branch totals some 22,000 members. It maintains a small Branch Office, relies upon volunteers to handle enquiries and to staff several committees and advisory groups. These include the Policy and Resolution Committee, Membership and Services Committee, Communications Committee, Health Benefit Officer, Tax Advice Volunteers, and Bereavement Support Group. The Branch is managed by a 13-person Board of Directors.

FSNA: What Do We Do?

For more than 40 years, FSNA has advocated for the interests of federal employees on the critical issues of pension, health care and dental care benefits. Achievements have included securing and maintaining full indexation of superannuation benefits, representing pensioners in the governance of the Public Service Health Care Plan (PSHCP) and obtaining a long-sought subsidized dental plan for retirees. FSNA represents pensioners on the Public Service and Canadian Forces Pension Advisory Committees. It maintains close links with the RCMP Pension Advisory Committee. It has a voting voice in the governance of the Public Service Health Care Plan. Its voice is also heard on the Pensioners’ Dental Services Plan Board.

FSNA also plays a major role in coalitions of seniors groups in representing the interest of older Canadians on major issues affecting them. FSNA’s professional research division monitors major issues of concern to seniors in general. Its position papers are respected by other advocacy groups, elected officials, as well as by senior levels of government. Recent examples include its presentations to the ‘Kirby Committee” and Romanow Commission on health care.

FSNA: Why Join?

To strengthen FSNA’s research and advocacy efforts, protecting the pension, health and dental care benefits of federal retirees.

To receive up-to-date information on pension, health and other matters of concern – through to the Association’s quarterly newsletter, branch reports, e-mail and other special mailings and branch meetings.

To enjoy discounts on products and services – including FSNA MEDOC®’s emergency travel insurance, which is supplementary to the Public Service Health Care Plan, special rates at selected hotels, Hertz Rent-A-Car and local computer and auto repair services.

To access individual help on matters related to your pension, health care and dental plans and other issues.

To contribute your experience and expertise to the Association.

To improve social policies for seniors.

FSNA: How to Join?

Membership is open to persons entitled to a pension from the Canadian Forces, Federal Public Service, Royal Canadian Mounted Police and the Judges Plan.

Annual membership fees are:

Retiree (Superannuate) and Spouse .............. $40.20

Retiree ............................................................ $30.00

Associate Member (Working Employee)...... $10.00

Payment can be made:

By mailing a cheque, payable to “FSNA, Ottawa Branch”, to FSNA Ottawa Branch, Unit B-1, 2285 St. Laurent Blvd., Ottawa, ON K1G 4Z5.

By registering on-line with the Ottawa Branch at www.fsnaottawa.com.

By having your dues automatically deducted from your monthly pension cheque, by registering on-line with the National Office at www.fsna.com.

FSNA membership represents an important step in protecting and enhancing your benefits as a current or future federal retiree. Support the Association’s advocacy work! There’s strength in numbers! As well, there is a variety of interesting volunteer and committee work, should you wish to consider such. It’s both intellectually stimulating and fun! You would be most welcome! Contact us at the FSNA, Ottawa Branch.

Tel: 737-2199. Fax: 737-9288.
E-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Visit our Branch website at www.fsnaottawa.com and the national site at www.fsna.com.

Craig MacDonald

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