The Honourable Gail A. Shea, Minister of Community and Cultural Affairs and Minister responsible for the Workers Compensation Board, announced appointments today to the Workers Compensation Board.
Re-appointed to the Board for second terms are the Honourable Jim Lee of Stanhope as Chair of the Board, Joyce McCardle of Middleton as worker representative and Vice-Chair of the Board, and Ray Gallant of Charlottetown also as worker representative.
"It is my pleasure to welcome the Honourable Jim Lee, Joyce McCardle and Ray Gallant back to the Workers Compensation Board for a second term," said Minister Shea. "I wish to thank these individuals for their past service on the Board. Their hard work and dedication is essential as the Board works toward the implementation of new programs to benefit both employers and employees."
The Honourable Jim Lee said he looks forward to serving as Chair of WCB for another term. "We have accomplished much over the past three years and will continue to improve services for Islanders. To begin the new year, we are launching an 'Assessment Payment Pilot Project' which will enable the WCB to evaluate a periodic payment system to registered employers. The aim is to establish a more effective and efficient payment system to meet the needs of businesses across the province."
Joyce McCardle and Ray Gallant are also pleased to serve Islanders for another term as worker representatives. Mrs. McCardle stated that, "the WCB will continue with its mandate to improve health and safety for workers. The new Occupational Health & Safety (OH & S) legislation will help prevent workplace accidents as employers and workers strengthen partnerships and take ownership of workplace health and safety."
Ray Gallant added that, "being safety conscious means being aware of the dangers Island workers face on a day-to-day basis. Workers Compensation Board is committed to fostering and supporting education and training about workplace safety."
Minister Shea stressed the importance of the Workers Compensation Board to the Island economy and workforce. "The Workers Compensation Board is a vital component to the success and continuation of a strong and stable workforce in Prince Edward Island."