Fresh from backing up the prime minister on a charm offensive in China, Richmond MP Alice Wong walked straight into the mini-storm that is the impending retirement age increase.
Wong was probably still fighting jet lag and, considering she was the PM's Chinese speaking special play on the trip, was perhaps still thinking more in Cantonese than Canadian when cornered by media in Ottawa.
Wong - the Minister of State for Seniors - was batting off questions about the government's move to increase the eligibility age for old age security, possibly from 65 to 67.
The Richmond MP pulled herself from the media scrum long enough to talk to the News and attempted to comfort local seniors or people closing in on retirement.
"There's a lot of misinformation out there and I want to assure your readers that their future is safe," said Wong.
"Those currently receiving benefits will not be affected, nor will those that will soon be retiring.
"We don't have the exact age or numbers on how far back that will go yet. I will let your readers know as soon as I do."
Demographic challenges, the "rapid aging of the population" and forecasted labour shortages are the Conservative government's justifications for raising the retirement age.
In simple terms, Wong said the government has to make sure there's enough money in the future pot to support seniors relying on a state pension.
"Looking at the long term, in order that the next generation are looked after in retirement, we have to make some changes," she added.
"I want to let Richmond people know that we will protect the financial security of our seniors, so the next generation will be able to enjoy the same benefits ...
"If we don't do something now, the cost will be three times as much. And if we do bring in changes, it will be gradual."
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