Frequently Asked Questions

Why has the WSIB requested an independent Funding Review?

The independent third party review is part of the WSIB’s response to concerns about the size of its unfunded liability (UFL). This independent review will consult with the public on ways to make the WSIB a more financially sustainable system for the future. The goal of the funding review is to establish a dialogue and seek input from workers, labour, employers and employer associations on a range of public policy issues relating to the WSIB’s financial future.

Who is leading the Funding Review? Why?

Professor Harry Arthurs has been invited to Chair the Funding Review. Professor Arthurs is a former Dean of Osgoode Hall Law School and former President of York University. He has extensive experience as a labour lawyer and mediator and recently led a review of Ontario’s workplace pension system.

Professor Arthurs will be advised by a small committee to provide their insights and varied perspectives on the social and economic issues that arise in the context of Ontario’s workplace safety and insurance system. Members of the Advisory Committee are:

• Maureen Farrow - is an external advisor on the WSIB Board of Directors’ Investment Committee. She is President of Economap Inc., a Director of the Equitable Life Insurance Company of Canada.
• Buzz Hargrove - is the former National President of the Canadian Auto Workers. He is currently serving as a Distinguished Visiting Professor at Ryerson University’s Ted Rogers School of Management.
• John O'Grady - is Chair of the Institute for Work and Health. As a consulting economist, he specializes in labour market and industry analysis.
• John Tory - is a former leader of the Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario. He is now a broadcaster and volunteer Chair of the Toronto City Summit Alliance.

How much will the Funding Review cost?

The cost of the Funding Review is an investment in the future sustainability of Ontario’s workplace safety and insurance system. The review is expected to cost approximately $2.6M.

How long is the Funding Review expected to take?

The Funding Review will finish in January 2012 with separate reports being submitted to the WSIB and the Ministry of Labour. The report to the WSIB will make recommendations on how it can improve its funding policies to ensure its financial sustainability. The report to the Ministry of Labour will recommend a fair form of indexation for partially disabled workers and how that level should be established.

How will the public take part in the Funding Review?

The Chair of the Funding Review will meet with stakeholder groups and will conduct public hearings across the Province. In addition, interested parties who prefer not to make a public presentation or are unable to attend a session will be able to submit their ideas in writing for improving the WSIBs financial position. The WSIB Funding Review website is also an excellent way to contact the Funding Review. The website address is www.wsibfundingreview.ca or you can email the Review at: [email protected] .

What is the Ontario government’s role in the Funding Review?

The Ontario government supports the Funding Review, and appointed Professor Harry Arthurs as Chair at the request of the WSIB. Professor Arthurs will provide periodic updates to the Ministry of Labour.

The Ontario government has passed legislation, that when enacted, will require the WSIB to have sufficient funds to pay for current benefits as they come due and to provide for future benefits. The recommendations from the Chair of the Funding Review will help to inform the government on the issues of an appropriate funding level and associated timeline.