FIREFIGHTERS RECEIVE INCREASED PROTECTION

Legislation expanding workers' compensation protection of full-time, professional fire fighters has been introduced in the Saskatchewan legislature.

Under The Workers' Compensation Amendment Act, 2005, ureter, colorectal, and testicular cancer, as well as lung cancer in non-smokers and heart injury occurring within 24 hours of an emergency response, are presumed to be occupational diseases for Saskatchewan's full-time, professional fire fighters, unless there is evidence to the contrary.

"These amendments reflect our desire to provide a workers' compensation system that reflects the inherent risks associated with the toxins, carcinogens and cancer-causing agents that Saskatchewan's professional fire fighters face simply by doing their jobs," Labour Minister Deb Higgins said.

"This new legislation gives us further assurance that if one of our members is afflicted with one of these diseases that member, and his or her dependents, will be taken care of," Saskatchewan Professional Fire Fighters Association president Gerry Huget said.

Once the legislation is passed, regulations establishing minimum employment requirements, based on existing scientific evidence, will be enacted. As new information about these cancers and their latency periods becomes available, the regulations can be adjusted in order to keep abreast of scientific evidence.

"The Government of Saskatchewan and the Workers' Compensation Board are committed to ensuring the provision of the most accountable and responsive workers' compensation system possible," Higgins said. "Simplifying access to compensation for these illnesses is one way we can show our appreciation for the work fire fighters do to protect our citizens and our communities."

There are close to 700 full-time, professional fire fighters in Saskatchewan. Since these illnesses are already covered by Workers' Compensation there will not be an incremental cost.

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For More Information, Contact:

John Boyd Labour Regina Phone: (306) 787-3370