Manitoba WCB cuts premium rates

WINNIPEG (Jan. 4) — The Manitoba trucking industry will enjoy lower workers compensation premium costs in 1999, the third straight year in which rates have dropped. In fact, the transportation industry at large is among those with the biggest reductions — 23%. Average assessment rates have dropped progressively from $2.24 in 1996 to $1.49 in 1999.

The province’s Workers Compensation Board will have a 1998 operating surplus of about $24 million.

Pat Jacobsen, the Board’s new CEO, says she will focus on prevention, disability management, and prudent fiscal strategies during her tenure. She also aims for a consultative approach and asks that industry players remain approachable and be prepared to work with the WCB, especially on the issue of prevention.

For its part, the Manitoba Trucking Association says it’s pleased with her collaborative attitude.