Workers� Compensation Review Committee releases consultation paper and schedule

The committee reviewing the workers� compensation system today announced the schedule for province-wide public consultations and released a consultation paper entitled Finding the Balance.

Bruce Peckford, chairperson of the Workplace Health, Safety and Compensation Review Committee, said: "The purpose of releasing the consultation paper prior to our sessions is to invite participation from the public. By identifying some of the key issues and areas surrounding the workers� compensation system, we are hoping to stimulate submissions and presentations from the public to help us to set the foundation for �finding the balance� within the workers� compensation system."

The review committee has identified a broad base of consultation sites to provide the public with an opportunity to voice their opinions. Beginning January 9, 2006, the committee will visit 11 locations around Newfoundland and Labrador to hear presentations from the public. Written submissions should be submitted to the committee one week prior to a scheduled session.

The locations and dates for the sessions are as follows:

The committee expects the partners in the workers� compensation system to participate fully in this process. "In our attempt to make improvements to the system, issues and concerns from all interested parties must be heard, as they will be the ones directly affected by any recommendations brought forward by the committee," added Mr. Peckford.

Individuals and groups wishing to make a presentation at a session should contact the Labour Relations Agency by December 30 at 1-877-563-1063 (toll-free) or (709) 729-4716.

The consultation paper can be obtained by contacting the Labour Relations Agency at (709) 729-4716, by visiting the Labour Relations Agency Web site (www.gov.nl.ca/lra/publications/), or the WHSCC website (www.whscc.nf.ca).

Media contact: Alex Marland, Communications, (709) 729-4062, 690-6047

2005 12 12                   4:15 p.m.