Premier Rejects Concept of Universal Coverage

Premier Russell MacLellan said common-sense views of many organizations have persuaded him that universal workers' compensation coverage would be of no benefit for thousands of Nova Scotia workers.

"Businesses and many publicly-funded organizations already provide better benefits to their employees than can be offered through workers' compensation. It doesn't make sense to force them to pay for coverage they don't want or need," said Premier MacLellan.

The premier was commenting on law amendments committee hearings where teachers, university administrators, lawyers, real estate agents, insurance brokers and small business owners have been voicing their opposition to a proposal that would see all Nova Scotia employers pay compensation premiums.

"We heard that these employers cover their workers on the job and at home. Workers' compensation only covers people on the job site," said the premier. "It's obvious some private plans are better.

"Why force these organizations to pay for something they already have? And why force them to pay for a system that isn't as generous?" he asked.

The committee heard that to include these industries in the workers' compensation system would increase their costs of doing business. Universities alone have estimated it would cost several million dollars to come under universal coverage. The province's school boards would be required to find at least an additional $1.7 million.