Remember those commercials about "Freedom 55" - the dreamy images of retirement on tropical beaches or the golf course? That simply is not the reality for most of us.

For most workers, retirement is about relief from years of the daily work grind, some extra time to spend with family and pursue hobbies and, usually, cutting some corners on the budget to get by with less income.

Most people avoid pension talk - it is complicated, mathematical and for some of us, at least, intimidating. As a result there is a lot of confusion about pensions and retirement. This issue of Union is intended to clear up the pension picture.

Tom Fuller examines the attack on pensions in Canada - why it is happening and who benefits from the scare tactics. He also outlines a specific attempt the Alberta government to undermine the Local Authorities Pension Plan. CAW Economist Jim Stanford debunks some myths about RRSPs and their value. Cherie Langlois-Klassen busts the rumour that the Canada Pension Plan is going broke.

We also have our regular features: a look-back at an amazing waitress strike in the 1930s, an analysis of recent militancy from CUPW members in Alberta and a glimpse at an unexpected May Day strike in the U.S. against the Iraq war.

We hope you enjoy this issue of Union.