This is an application by I.R. under s. 17(1)(a) of the Divorce Act,
R.S.C. 1985, c. 3 (2nd Supp.) [the Act] to vary a spousal
support order made by Parrett J. on February 18, 1993 requiring him to pay to
his ex-wife, M.R., $4,400 per month. I.R. asserts that his decision to
semi-retire with his second wife, P.R., constitutes a material change in
circumstances since the making of the original order. The relief sought by I.R.
on his notice of application is immediate termination of the obligation to pay
spousal support. In oral argument, counsel for I.R. conceded that immediate
termination of spousal support was unrealistic and proposed a reduction in
monthly support to $1,779 for a three year period, after which his obligation
to pay support would come to an end....