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For immediate release FIREFIGHTERS LEGISLATION PASSES IMMEDIATELY WOODSTOCK – Yesterday legislation to secure compensation for firefighter job-related cancers and heart attacks was passed in a matter of minutes due to a Progressive Conservative motion and all party support. With hundreds of firefighters from throughout Ontario in the public galleries, Progressive Conservative MPP Jim Wilson moved a motion to proceed with the legislation and immediately move 2nd and 3rd reading of the bill, without debate. The legislation was very similar to a private members’ bill introduced by NDP MPP Andrea Horwath. “Part of the job of being in opposition is to make sure good pieces of legislation are supported and move forward,” said Hardeman. “I felt it was vital that this bill be passed so the firefighters in our community and throughout Ontario can get the benefits they deserve. I was pleased to vote in support of it.” The legislation amends the Workplace Safety and Insurance Act to identify diseases and heart injuries, presumed to be work-related for firefighters. This includes bladder, kidney, ureter, brain, non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, colorectal, leukemia and esophageal cancers, as well as heart-attacks suffered within 24 hours of attending a fire. The compensation will be retroactive to January 1, 1960. “Every day firefighters put their lives at risk in order to protect us and our families,” added Hardeman. “Protecting these community heroes and ensuring they are treated fairly in the face of occupational illnesses is responsible, fair and the right thing to do.” - 30 -
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