(In thousands of dollars except as noted and per share amounts) Notes to CoNsolidated FiNaNCial statemeNts  The Company has determined that, in accordance with the terms and conditions of the defined benefit plans, and  in accordance with statutory requirements (such as minimum funding requirements) of the plans of the respective  jurisdictions, the present value of refunds or reductions in the future contributions is not lower than the balance of  the total fair value of the plan assets less the total present value of the obligations. As such, no decrease in the defined  benefit asset is necessary at September 28, 2013 (September 29, 2012 - no decrease in defined benefit asset).  The Company measures its accrued benefit obligations and the fair value of plan assets for accounting purposes at year-end. The most recent actuarial valuations were as of December 31, 2010 and 2012, and the next required  valuations will be as of December 31, 2013 and 2015. The asset allocation of the major categories in the Plan was as follows: 19.  EMPLOYEE BENEFITS (CONTINUED):  September 28, September 29,  2013 2012 % % Equity securities  58.0 56.7 Government bonds  36.9 39.7 Cash and short-term securities 5.1 3.6 100.0 100.0 83 Annual Report 2013