AREQ: Over Half a Decade of Promoting and Defending the Rights and Interests of Seniors in Quebec

Tashi Farmilo

AREQ, the Association of Retired Persons from the Education and Other Public Sectors of Quebec, celebrates its 62nd anniversary in 2023. Founded in 1961, the association is still going strong and has a membership of 60,000 retired individuals throughout Quebec, including over 600 in the Hull-Aylmer area.

AREQ is open to all retired individuals who were affiliated with The Centrale des syndicats du Québec (CSQ), the Confédération des syndicats nationaux (CSN), even if only for a day, during their career. The association's primary mission is to promote and defend the cultural, social, economic, and environmental rights and interests of seniors. AREQ has committees set up at the sectoral, regional, and provincial levels that intervene in various fields, such as socio-political environment and sustainable development, status of women and men, indexation, and purchasing power in retirement.

The association also offers many activities based on the interests of its members. Meetings, conferences, trips, outings, and meals are organized to celebrate various occasions, such as Christmas and Valentine's Day. The association also supports the Laure-Gaudreault Foundation, which works to improve the quality of life of seniors and young people in need. All these activities offer members the opportunity to socialize and remain active and supportive. In addition, members benefit from a free and unlimited legal consultation program.

Nicole Tremblay, the current president of the Hull-Aylmer sector of AREQ, stated, "I am already in my sixth year as president of the Hull-Aylmer sector. As this will be the last, I would like to enjoy it with all of you." The sector has 689 members with an average age of 76 years. The best ways to reach members are through the industry newsletter, which is released twice a year, messages by email or phone, and the Echo of the sector, which provides information about the life of the sector and seniors' rights.

Four positions, including the presidency, 2nd vice-presidency, secretary, and 2nd adviser, are up for election. AREQ is calling for members to get involved and run for these positions. As the organization looks toward the future, it is seeking new members and leaders to continue its legacy of advocacy and support for seniors. 

The AREQ remains a vibrant and active force in the lives of retired persons in Quebec. Its commitment to promoting the well-being of seniors and fostering a sense of community among its members makes it an essential organization for all those in the education and public sectors.

Photo Caption: Members of the Hull-Aylmer sector of AREQ, enjoying a class together. (TF)

Photo Credit: Courtesy of AREQ, the Association of Retired Persons from the Education and Other Public Sectors of Quebec