LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
I certainly agree with The Examiner's editorial and I would like to add a few points of my own.
I was happy to read that finally Ron Lebeau's claim was settled. His widow having to wait 20 years for this day reached beyond injustice.
I wish her only the best, finally she can think of moving forward. Was justice served? At what cost to her and her family?
The editorial states correctly that a worker-driven review, a most comprehensive study on the chemicals within the GE Peterborough plant, was documented.
More than 3,000 in all, running amok within and throughout the plant for lack of safety barriers, poor or non-existing ventilation.
WSIB whould have known of the toxicity and speculated on the unknown that was created through mixing.
WSIB should simply have taken the findings of occupational health physicians, activists, both health and labour. It should have looked deeper and recognized there was a cluster, so many people got sick and died within the company.
I also think absolutely a public inquiry into the workings of the WSIB is necessary. Someone needs to be held accountable.
Why was the WSIB so poorly managed? There was a shortfall in the compensation fund, 2009, of $11.6 billion. Injured and sick workers and their families have a right to know.
I can't understand why there wasn't an outcry from those that funded the WSIB, so loud as not to be missed. Where did the money go? I, as one of many widows who had their claims denied, want answers.
It is not for lack of trying. I have written many letters to various people, the president, CEO of WSIB, the premier, the minister of labour of the previous government, with very little success.
It seems nothing has changed. This premier does not seem interested in addressing concerns about the WSIB. Also, he seems not interested in meeting with those in Peterborough who invited him.
Labour Minister Laurie Scott's reaction to requests for help with GE claims? Benefits for workers to be cut and a 30 per cent premium deduction for employers! Great!
That wins her friends but it's on the back of injured workers. It begs the question – who is she supposed to be working for?
You're lowering taxes to create jobs – really? Ask the injured workers.
I fear we are in for a rough ride in this province, with this government.
Since when does Premier Doug Ford's “buck a beer” and extended LCBO store hours help injured workers, or those who are struggling to make ends meet, not getting the $1 increase in the minimum wage?
I sadly see this government doing no more for the people of this province as its predecessor. Shame on you. Ingrid Buck, Fairbairn Street We want to hear from you. Send us opinions, comments and other feedback. Letters should be no more than 250 words and include the writers’ full name and address, plus a daytime telephone number for verification. Letters will be edited for content and legality. Email to letters@peterboroughdaily.com.