Bill 6 a step forward for Alberta farms, says NFU
The Alberta government recently introduced Bill 6, the Enhanced Protection for Farm and Ranch Workers Act, which, if passed, will require farms with one or more paid employees to carry Workers Compensation insurance. The National Farmers Union supports Bill 6, which is currently being debated in the Alberta Legislature.
“By requiring farms that have one or more paid employees to carry Workers Compensation, the new law will ensure that both farmers and farm workers are protected,” said Doug Scott, NFU Region 7 (Alberta) Coordinator. “Farmers will not be vulnerable to lawsuits if a worker is injured on their farm.”
“The increased awareness of Workers Compensation as a result of this law will encourage more farmers to join the program themselves,” added Peter Eggers, NFU Region 8 (Peace River and BC) Coordinator. “We never want to think about what would happen if we had an accident on the farm, but if it happens, Workers Compensation can make the difference so that a person can farm again.”
The NFU is committed to working with the government’s consultation process to create regulations to accomplish these goals.
“We are happy to see that extensive consultations are planned to develop the regulations that will spell out exactly how the act will be implemented,” said Jan Slomp, NFU President. “It is important to take the time needed to ensure the regulations support various farmers’ situations and reflect the diversity of farming operations in Alberta.”
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For more information:
Doug Scott, NFU Region 7 (Alberta) Coordinator: (780) 650-1336 or (780) 358-2376
Peter Eggers, NFU Region 8 (BC and Peace River region) Coordinator: (780) 568-3805 or (780) 518-2289
Jan Slomp, NFU President: (403) 704-4364 or (250) 898-8223
