New Legislation Extends Family Benefits to Self-Employed REALTORS(R)

OTTAWA , Nov. 3 /CNW Telbec/ - The Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA) applauds the government for taking action to address many of the inequities in the Employment Insurance (EI) program faced by self-employed REALTORS(R).

Under legislation introduced today, the self-employed would have the option to participate in elements of the EI program.

"This is an important step to level the benefits playing field for self-employed Canadians," said Dale Ripplinger , President of CREA and a Saskatchewan REALTOR(R). "We are thoroughly reviewing the legislation. We look forward to working with the government to ensure access to EI benefits for REALTORS(R), which can help balance career and family life."

About The Canadian Real Estate Association

The Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA) is one of Canada's largest single-industry trade associations, representing more than 96,000 real estate Brokers/agents and salespeople working through more than 100 real estate Boards and Associations.

Registrants in any province who become members of organized real estate have an obligation to act in accordance with the REALTOR(R) Code. This Code outlines the accepted standard of conduct for all real estate practitioners who are members of a real estate Board or a Provincial Association.

CREA owns the MLS(R) and REALTOR(R) trademarks, which signify a high standard of service and identify members of CREA.

For further information: or to arrange an interview, please contact: Alyson Fair, Publicist, The Canadian Real Estate Association, [phone] ext 2284, [email protected]