Proxy voting
As part of our efforts to promote good corporate governance, OPTrust actively exercises our voting rights as a shareholder in the companies in which we invest. The Plan’s shares are voted according to detailed Proxy Voting Guidelines approved by the Board of Trustees.

These guidelines address key governance issues such as the appointment of independent auditors and directors, compensation and stock option plans, and mergers and acquisitions. They also address a range of social, ethical and environmental concerns. If voting issues arise that fall outside the guidelines, they are referred to a subcommittee of the Investment Committee for guidance.

Environmental, social and governance issues
OPTrust recognizes that environmental, social and governance (ESG) issues have the potential to affect the performance of our investment portfolios. In 2007, the Trustees approved changes to the Plan’s Statement of Investment Policies and Procedures identifying ESG concerns as factors to be considered in the Plan’s investment activities.

Advocacy on corporate governance
As part of our ongoing commitment to promoting sound corporate governance, OPTrust participates as an active member of the Canadian Coalition for Good Governance (CCGG). This organization includes a number of leading Canadian pension plans and institutional investment managers, representing over $1.4 trillion in institutional investment assets. The coalition’s mission is to represent Canadian institutional shareholders through the promotion of corporate governance best practices and to align the interests of boards and management with those of shareholders.