WSIB owes workers a more detailed explanation

Let me begin by commending the efforts of the Examiner to accurately state the truth and facts in the recent editorial “Slashing WSIB premiums could put workers at risk.”

I am deeply disturbed after reading the response by WSIB CEO Tom Teahen in the letter dated Nov. 16. His effort to put a positive spin on the suffering of injured workers across Ontario has only added insult to injury. It is these workers who have had to pay the price and do not feel safer than ever before, nor do they have peace of mind that WSIB will look after them. There is no evidence to suggest that facts, truth, fairness, transparency and integrity are part of the WSIB culture.

Workers have always been at risk, more so now that WSIB shares the mentality of an Insurance company and not a workers compensation system. The WSIB’s client and stakeholder interest is quite clearly on the side of the employer and corporate interests. Why else would there be a 30 per cent reduction in employer premiums?

Mr. Teahen, I would ask that you provide a detailed explanation of how the WSIB managed to eliminate a $14.2-billion dollar unfunded liability, provide a bonus to employers, and still ensure that workers are receiving the compensation they deserve. You say you want to set the standard for outcomes in recovery, return to work, occupational health care and claims decision-making. The workers of GE are not recovering, many are deceased. There is no work to return to. Most don’t need occupational health care, they need long term care and just compensation.

Perhaps you could concentrate on the GE claims process in a more timely fashion with a comprehensive adjudication decision-making process, injected with a healthy dose of common sense. If ever you are in Peterborough, our committee would love to sit down with you and have a chat.

Sue James, Peterborough