1. yes
2. no need to be 65 to split pensions... the big benefit here is usually lower over all taxes instead of the pension credit, however... but maybe you have a lot of non-registered investments?
Both of the above from memory...
Also, you can split CPP pensions, over 65, if you are looking for something to split with pension credit, but only over age 65.
RRIF pension can also be claimed for the pension credit, before age 65, for those who are self-funded., so not discriminatory in CRA's view. But you need to convert your RRSP to a RRIF first.
Under 65 -- you can use a spousal RRSP to split retirement income. Yes, this old school RRSP type still has value in an pension-income splitting world, because you need to be 65 to split pensions, normally.