New legislation a victory for first responders – UFCW 175

Mississauga, Ont. – February 23, 2016 – UFCW Canada Local 175 supports the Ontario government's move toward providing expedited access to Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB) benefits for first responders dealing with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

"Our hardworking first responders are there for our families in times of need and they deserve the support that this legislation provides," said UFCW Local 175 President Shawn Haggerty. "This is a victory for these workers and an encouraging step toward improving workers' rights."

These changes are long overdue. Providing faster access to vital resources and treatment, and removing the burden of having to prove that PTSD is work related, will go a long way to ensuring a positive recovery for workers.

"We hope that this is the first of many positive changes for workers in this province who deal with work-related illnesses and injuries."

UFCW Locals 175 & 633 represents more than 70,000 Union members working across Ontario including EMS and Volunteer Firefighters. Local 175 has its own Workers' Compensation Department that provides assistance to members going through the difficult WSIB claims and appeals process.