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"City extends benefits for military reservists" (Calgary Herald, 2007-12-11. Page 19)
City extends benefits for military reservists
COLETTE DERWORIZ CALGARY HERALD
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City employees who work as reservists will no longer lose pay, benefits or pension while they are training or serving overseas, after council endorsed a military leave policy Monday.
The policy, which takes effect Jan. 1, will put the City of Calgary in front of most other municipalities in the compensation packages offered to reservists.
Employees will be eligible for a military leave for a maximum of 24 months.
“That’s giving me goosebumps,” said Shawna Taylor, whose husband Jeff had to take a year leave of absence from the city to cover training and a six-month deployment to Afghanistan. “I’m glad because we didn’t have that.
“People who are thinking about making a difference in the country will now be able to, because it doesn’t leave the family struggling.”
Since her husband’s benefits were cut off by the city, Taylor’s family was left without medical and dental coverage for almost three months.
Under the new policy, military reservists employed full-time by the city would have their salary, benefits and pension topped up for up to 24 months for training, domestic relief operations or international deployments. It also ensures employees don’t lose their benefits, seniority or vacation time.
“It’s something meaningful, tangible and supports military families who call Calgary home,” said Mayor Dave Bronconnier.
Early next year, 64 reservists serving with the Calgary Highlanders will be sent to Afghanistan for up to six months.
While there are about 100 reservists working for the city, it’s unknown how many are slated to go overseas.
City officials estimated, however, that the policy would cost less than $100,000 annually.
“It’s one of the best things we could have done for our members of the Canadian Forces and their families,” said Ald. Diane Colley-Urquhart, who, along with the mayor, asked council earlier this year to support the policy.
“It really puts our money where our mouth is.”
Colley-Urquhart said the city is getting calls from other municipalities — and some private companies — about Calgary’s policy.
“There have been inquiries from across the country on what we are doing,” she said.
Earlier this year, city council was criticized for its decision not to put Support the Troops decals on municipal vehicles.
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