"Injured workers are being told to wait for hearings while government makes appointments at the Review Division of the Workplace Health and Safety Compensation Commission (WHSCC)," said Barrett. "These workers are forced to go without medication, treatment and specialist appointments because Minister Burke and the government refuse to deal with the situation in a timely manner.

"It is my understanding that all hearings for the month of October have been cancelled and officials have been instructed not to book any new hearing dates until further notice. I have to ask whether the minister or the premier even realize what impact their inaction is causing. This is causing serious hardship on some of the most vulnerable people in society, the disabled and the injured.

"It is time for the minster to come forward and explain exactly what is happening at WHSCC and explain why there is such uncertainty about the future operation of the commission. The minister should explain the confusion and delays to the public. She knew this situation would arise and should have had a plan in place for a smooth transition."

The Liberal MHA is also concerned that the transition period may take longer than government anticipates. "New commissioners must be brought up to speed on the WHSCC Act and procedures before they can move forward with hearing cases. This will certainly cause further delays for those people who have already been waiting to have their cases move through the system. It is the goal of the Review Commission to have cases heard within 60 days and this goal is not being met.

"This situation is unacceptable and the injured workers of the province deserve better. The minister must clear up this situation as soon as possible by appointing new commissioners now or making arrangements to have cases heard in the interim."