FOCUS ON WCB

The break is done for me. I always miss daily life when I think I need a break.  I am always anxious to get back to routine that I know and love.

Most people know that I hate cold weather, but I do not plan any further expended breaks for a long time. I am 4th and 5th generation Canadian I should be challenged by the weather not defeated.

As Canadians we reflect on who we are by what we do, that makes us have purpose in life. If you ask a Canadian trades person usually you reply by; name and trade. So many of us have that habit. I am Gail; injured worker advocate.

So many injured workers can relate and define themselves by work. Difficult thing to change.

A break always makes me reflect on my life which is mainly advocating for workers’ rights and the relationships it has created over the years. Also goals for the future of injured workers and the WCB system that changes administratively, but results in more flaws.  

It is almost 40 years that I have experienced the tragic declining WCB system with unfair decisions, longer deadlines, and twisted policies. My advocating for WCB system changes will never end. There will always be new staff, new government and interpretation of workers’ rights and benefits will always be in dispute.

I thank all the injured workers that take the time to reach out, tell their story and ask for my assistance for so many years.  I am sure that 2020 will bring us all new challenges in the WCB system.

The new PC government is not interested in meeting with any stakeholders outside WCB. The system only has media attention if there is a crisis, and the new WCB C.E.O. is not open to any questions of concern at the annual general meeting. The WCB financial portfolio is declining, which means employers accounts will be affected in the rates in the future. This always reflects back on injured workers. 

One thing I do know is that a goal is to lobby for change going forward making the WCB system better for injured workers.

Oh one more thing. The new fairness office through the government, no statistics to be found and many complaints, how is that going for the injured workers? Let me know.