Changes would make Coverage Accessible to All Workers under the Workers Compensation Act

The Manitoba government is introducing amendments to the Workers Compensation Act that would recognize post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) as a work-related occupational disease.

Premier Greg Selinger announced the amendments today on the steps of the Manitoba Legislature. Under the new law, the Workers Compensation Board would presume a workers’ condition was caused by the job, making it much easier to access supports, treatment and compensation for PTSD.

“We represent a broad cross section of workers in different occupations and as such we have learned that psychological injuries can happen to absolutely anyone regardless of what they do for a living,” said MGEU President, Michelle Gawronsky.  “I believe we were the first organization to bring this idea forward on behalf of our members and I’m very glad, at the end of the day, to be able to stand here with all the partners and recognize all workers, regardless of what uniform they wear or what job they do.”

The amendments would extend coverage and benefits to all workers eligible under WCB who are diagnosed with PTSD by a medical professional. This would ensure timely access to compensation and support services, with the long-term goal of reducing the stigma attached to mental illness.

“These changes promise to ease the adjudication process for workers that are already dealing with a significant mental health issue, and help them get the treatment they need more quickly. And that really should be the goal: providing treatment as quickly as we can to get people into a position to cope with their challenges,” said Gawronsky

The proposed changes were inspired by the work of several key labour groups, including the MGEU, who were instrumental during the consultation process and essential in how the legislation was conceived and drafted. All involved led the charge with public campaigns, recognizing the affects workplace trauma can have on their members.

“PTSD is a real threat to working people.  Any improvements in their access to support is welcome news,” said Kevin Rebeck, president, Manitoba Federation of Labour.  “It comes as no surprise to me that Manitoba is the first jurisdiction to put this level of protection into legislation.”