KINGSTON, ONTARIO--(Marketwire - March 11, 2011) - The Empire Life Insurance Company (Empire Life) today announced a 5.3% increase in its annual common share dividend to $16.0394 per share for 2011. On February 25, 2011, the Board of Directors of Empire Life declared the payment of an annual cash dividend for 2011 on Empire Life issued and outstanding common shares, in the amount of $16.0394 per share, payable March 15, 2011 to shareholders of record February 25, 2011. Empire Life advises that the above referenced dividend is an eligible dividend for the purposes of the Income Tax Act, Canada and any similar provincial tax legislation.

About Empire Life

A subsidiary of E-L Financial Corporation Limited and in business since 1923, Empire Life helps Canadians build wealth and protect their financial security with competitive individual and group life and health insurance, investment and retirement products. The Company's vision is to be the leading independently-owned Canadian financial services company committed to simplicity, being easy to do business with and having a personal touch.