BC -- If the government moves forward with changes to the provincial Human Rights Code, people who reach the age of 65 will have the option to keep working as of January 1, 2008.

Amendments to the code, which currently prohibits discrimination on the basis of age for people age 19 to 64, will extend protection from age discrimination to those 65 and over.

By eliminating mandatory retirement the government hopes to address labour shortages that are expected over the next decade. The Ministry of Economic Development anticipates another million job openings in British Columbia, while only 650,000 students will graduate to fill the labour market.

"We recognize the wealth of skills and experience that mature workers can contribute to services, businesses, government and our economy," said Oppal. "The number of British Columbians over the age of 65 will more than double in the next 25 years, so it is important we prepare for that demographic shift. We want to give mature workers in British Columbia choices to continue their contribution to the workforce, if that is their wish."

The legislation, if passed, would not be retroactive and former employers would not be required to re-employ staff who retire before the legislation comes into force. When the changes come into effect, mature workers will be subject to the same Human Rights Code standard of accommodation as other workers for when addressing age related disabilities. However, the exemption that currently allows employers to make distinctions on grounds such as age because of a job's nature and those related to public safety, such as being fit to be a police officer, will remain in effect.

"It's a timely and needed change," said Dr. Patricia Baird, chair of the Premier's Council on Aging and Seniors' Issues. "People in B.C. are living much longer and we need to facilitate the participation of older adults in all aspects of our social and economic life. We'll all benefit."

The legislation will come into effect Jan. 1, 2008.

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