Media Release: Public consultation begins on workers’ compensation pension system

10th Aug 2020

Yellowknife, NT (August 10, 2020) – The Workers’ Safety and Compensation Commission (WSCC) is seeking feedback on proposed changes to the pension system for workplace injuries or illnesses.

“We’re looking forward to having strong representation from individuals and organizations across Nunavut and the Northwest Territories actively participating and sharing their views. We want to ensure that any changes continue to meet the needs of all northern workers and employers, now, and into the future.” said Debbie Molloy, WSCC President and CEO.

“Our Governance Council will carefully consider what we hear during this consultation before making a decision about whether or not to recommend legislative amendments to the Workers’ Compensation Acts of the Northwest Territories and Nunavut”, Molloy said.

The WSCC pension system relates to the type of compensation paid to workers who suffer a work-related injury or illness that permanently impacts their lives and their ability to work.

The WSCC’s proposal will move from a pension for life system, based solely on the percentage of permanent medical impairment (PMI) and earnings at the time of a worker’s injury, to a dual pension system that provides compensation for the worker’s permanent medical impairment and long-term earning loss benefits based on individual circumstances over time.

The consultation is open to all members of the public from the morning of Monday, August 10th and will continue throughout the month of September.

Visit the WSCC’s website www.wscc.nt.ca or www.wscc.nu.ca to read more about how the pension system works, the proposed changes, and to share your feedback by completing an online survey.

The WSCC will also host a series of online town hall style meetings on the proposed changes in September.

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Maggie Collins
Communications Manager
Workers’ Safety and Compensation Commission Northwest Territories and Nunavut
T: (867) 920-3854