US - The limit on allocation to hedge funds for Massachusetts retirement systems has been increased by 2.5% to 7.5% following a decision by the Public Employee Retirement Administration Commission (Perac).

CANADA - A rally planned by five Nova Scotia unions was postponed after a tentative agreement in a major pensions dispute was reached between the unions and the Nova Scotia Association of Health Organizations.

HAMPSHIRE County Council Pension Fund is looking to create a portfolio of alternative investments including commodities, infrastructure, private equity and hedge funds.

AUSTRALIA - Elizabeth Bryan has been appointed to chair the AUS$20bn UniSuper fund.

US - The Pennsylvania State Employees' Retirement System has committed US$320m to alternative investments.

INSOLVENCY specialist Martine Trouard-Riolle has been appointed head of corporate risk management by The Pensions Regulator.

IRELAND - Irish pension schemes have cast doubt over the ability of pan-European pensions to make a real impact, despite the implementation of the IORPs directive in 2005.

EUROPE - Patrick Burke has been elected director of the European Federation for Retirement Provision, taking over from Nora Finn.

FUNDING targets are set to exceed scheme liabilities forcing employers to dig deep to wipe out deficits, says Mercer HR Consulting.

GISSINGS is running an education seminar in a bid to provide scheme sponsors and trustees with an understanding of age discrimination legislation.