An employee of a federally regulated business was off work for over 20 years due to a work related injury (amputation of his arm). Over the years the employee maintained his employment status and the employer made health and welfare and pension plan contributions on behalf of the employee. Approximately 20 years later the company was sold and the purchaser inquired into whether the employee was able to return to work. When the employee reported that he was unable to return to work due to the injury, the employer terminated his employment.