Independent committee appointed to review Newfoundland and Labrador workers' compensation system

The Newfoundland and Labrador government has launched an independent review of the province's workers' compensation system and appointed a five-member committee to oversee the process.

The review is required under the Workplace Health, Safety and Compensation Act, 2022, which mandates an independent examination of the system every five years to ensure it continues to meet the needs of workers and employers.

The committee will be chaired by Darren Roberts, with Doug Youden serving as vice-chair and employer representative. Other members include employer representative Heather Stamp and worker representatives Bernadette Coffey Sobol and Bob Fiander.

According to the provincial government, committee members were nominated by labour and business organizations, including the Newfoundland and Labrador Federation of Labour, Trades NL, the Atlantic Chamber of Commerce and the Board of Trade.

The review will examine the governance and operation of the workers' compensation system through three key themes: workplace safety, support for injured workers and their families, and the efficiency and accessibility of the compensation system.

Public consultations will be held throughout the province, including in-person, written and online engagement opportunities. Details on consultation sessions will be announced by the committee at a later date.

The review is intended to help ensure the system remains responsive, sustainable and effective for both workers and employers across Newfoundland and Labrador.