Responsible investment leader
Over the past 35 years, Bâtirente’s concrete actions time and again have defined it as a leader in responsible investment. As one of the first asset owners to adopt a responsible investment policy in the early 2000s, it was also among the initial signatories of the Principles for Responsible Investment in 2006. Today, we continue to act in line with four key elements: investing, measuring, engaging and cooperating.

In terms of engagement, we are especially pleased by the major partnership developed with Fondaction at the end of 2022, which aligns with our collaboration values and serves as a barometer for the achievement of our shared responsible investment goals. A further step was taken in the pooling of our shareholder engagement efforts in Québec when we renewed our confidence early on in Æquo, Shareholder Engagement Services, and announced that Fondaction was joining Æquo’s share capital to support them in their growth.

“Bâtirente also made an important climate commitment in response to the climate crisis. We unveiled positive results in 2022 that are encouraging for the future, and we are well on track to reaching our goals for 2025.”

Bâtirente also made an important climate commitment in response to the climate crisis. We unveiled positive results in 2022 that are encouraging for the future, and we are well on track to reaching our goals for 2025. We reduced our carbon footprint by 16% in three years. Since 2018, assets invested in impact strategies have increased by $140M and now total 24% of all mandates entrusted Bâtirente is proud of its history but also determined to keep moving forward with its mission to help its 26,000 members from 318 groups achieve a successful retirement. The last few years have brought their share of challenges: a pandemic, market volatility and even a climate crisis. As such, more than ever, Bâtirente needs to be there for unions and their members to help them navigate an increasingly complex world. to managers. We were also very active through our partner Æquo, which held climate dialogues with 26 companies.

Lastly, in connection with the COP15 that took place in Montréal in December 2022, Bâtirente signed the Financial sector statement on biodiversity for COP15 drafted by the UNEP FI, PRI and Finance for Biodiversity Foundation.

Honouring our Builders
Bâtirente is a decidedly forward-thinking organization yet one that remains very proud of its roots. During the 2022 annual general meeting, we paid tribute to Daniel Simard. This passionate activist and first CEO of the corporation retired last year, after a 44-year career within the CSN movement. He was inducted into the Builders’ Honour Roll. We are deeply grateful for his contributions to our organization.

Making a difference in the lives of our members
In 2022, despite the persistent pandemic and historical volatility in financial markets, Bâtirente achieved remarkable results. We reached a record level of contributions, which demonstrates the attractiveness of our offer to CSN unions.

Moreover, despite the difficult situation for financial markets, our team deftly weathered the storm to protect our members’ portfolios while achieving excellent added value for them.

None of this would have been possible without the efforts of our employees, who maintained close contact with unions and their members across Québec throughout the year, showcasing their attentiveness and expertise. We wish to thank them for that.

“In 2022, despite the persistent pandemic and historical volatility in financial markets, Bâtirente achieved remarkable results. We reached a record level of contributions, which demonstrates the attractiveness of our offer to CSN unions.”

A productive year for the board of directors
Board directors also worked on several major projects, including the one addressing board and committee diversity. There was a keen sense of pride in the board’s resolution to continue encouraging diversity of age, gender and culture. A global parity target was adopted, to be reached by no later than the 2025 annual general meeting, for positions held by Category A and C representatives as well as for external members.

During the annual general meeting, Hélène Jacques was re-elected for a second term and confirmed as Vice-Chair. Also elected as Category A representatives were Christian Cyr, Coordinator of the Comité intersectoriel du secteur privé of the CSN, for a third term; and Simon Mathieu Malenfant, Vice-President, Treasury, of the FEESP-CSN union, for a first term. Elected Category B representatives were Nicolas Docquier of the Syndicat national des employés du papier de Candiac labour union, for a second term; Pierre Leduc of the Syndicat national des produits chimiques de Valleyfield (CSN) union, for his fourth term; and Kevin Gagnon of the Syndicat des Travailleuses et Travailleurs de Bridgestone de Joliette (CSN) union, for his first term. Congratulations to all of them!

We also extend our thanks to all members of the board and external committees for their commitment and contribution to the corporation’s success. The work and dedication of every one of them make Bâtirente a strong, efficient and responsible organization benefiting its members.