Minister: Review Workmen’s Compensation Act
Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry Kim Wilson met with the Bermuda Industrial Union (BIU) and Bermuda Public Services Union (BPSU) this week to discuss industrial relations between unions, employers and the Government.
Minister Wilson said it is important to forge a close working relationship with the Island’s unions to ensure all labour related issues can be discussed in a mutually respectful environment.
During discussions Minster Wilson promised to review the Workmen’s Compensation Act as the existing payout for claims has not been reviewed in almost to 30 years.
Senator Wilson said: “The review will look at an increase to the cap on weekly periodic payments payable in circumstances where a worker is temporarily incapacitated, whether total or partial, as a result of an on-the-job injury. It is proposed that the twenty-eight year old maximum of one hundred and seventy dollars ($170.00) per week be changed to something more realistic and meaningful which will serve all stakeholders going forward. A formula for a new calculation and a proposal to amend the legislation will be presented to Cabinet in the coming weeks.”
Other topics discussed included the issue of Management Representation. Minister Wilson said that as the industrial relationship in Bermuda is voluntary there may not be a need to amend the legislation defining what a manager is or mandating the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) recognition.
Minister Wilson explained: “Managers have an individual right to belong to a union if they desire. Employers also have a right to deny formal recognition for collective bargaining purposes.”
“In this protracted economic downturn it behooves all parties – unions, employers and the Government – to resolve any disputes so that we can keep the country working and moving forward. I look forward to a good working relationship with all unions in Bermuda to ensure that workers and employers rights are protected.”
Next week Minister Wilson will meet with the Trade Union Congress which represents eight of Bermuda’s unions.
