Province launches review of Alberta WCB

Alberta’s Labour Minister announced Thursday that an independent panel had been appointed to review the Alberta Workers’ Compensation Board (WCB).

Minister Christina Gray announced a three-member panel, made up of headed by neutral Chair Mia Norrie, worker’s representative partner John Carpenter, and Pemme Cunliffe, who will be representing employers.

The panel is expected to examine the WCB system, relevant legislation, principles of compensation, and policies – including those related to privacy and confidentiality, along with transparency of processes and decision-making.

Minister Gray said the review is long overdue, as the WCB was last reviewed 15 years ago.

“Albertans deserve a system that works for them when they need it,” the minister said in a news release. “This review will help ensure that the Workers Compensation Board provides fair compensation and meaningful rehabilitation in a way that is sustainable and affordable.”

The review has a maximum budget of $2.3 million, the Minister said it would take place over 24 months – a progress update is expected in the fall, with a final report in the spring of 2017.

The province is conducting the review as part of the government’s plan to review agencies, boards and commissions.

More information on the WCB review is available online.