Acknowledgements

The most important contributions to this study came from the 34 Manitoba injured workers who described their efforts to become re-employed, and the barriers they encountered. Without their generosity and openness, this report would not exist.

Don Halechko and I conducted this study. Don’s intimate knowledge of the workers’ compensation system—as an injured worker and advocate—was invaluable. He suggested recommendations 1, 2, 4, 33, and 34.

The Workers with Disabilities Project Advisory Committee developed the proposal for this study, and provided thoughtful suggestions and guidance. David Martin (Manitoba League of Persons with Disabilities) and Pete Walker (Manitoba Federation of Labour) co-chaired the committee. Dave suggested recommendations 17 and 19, and Pete suggested recommendations 30 and 35.

Other members of the committee included Teresa Andreychuk (Reaching E-Quality Employment Services), Adrienne Campbell (Canadian Paraplegic Association), Terry Kennedy (CEP 460M), Derek Legge (Manitoba Human Rights Commission), Tara Maniar (Reaching E-Quality Employment Services), Greg Messer (Workers Compensation Board of Manitoba), Maureen Morrison (Canadian Union of Public Employees), Bob Sample (Canadian Union of Postal Workers, Winnipeg Region), Brian Stewart (Concept Special Business Advisors), Pat Williamson (Manitoba Labour Education Centre), and Dorothy Wise (Manitoba League of Persons with Disabilities).

Terry Kennedy—a key member of the Workers with Disabilities Project since its inception in 1992—passed away during this study. His contributions will be missed.

The Manitoba League of Persons with Disabilities provided office space, and David Martin (Provincial Co-ordinator) provided day-to-day supervision. Josie Concepcion and Emily Ternette provided outstanding administrative support.

Paula Kierstead (Manitoba League of Persons with Disabilities) and Harry Mesman (United Food and Commercial Workers, Local 832) facilitated educational workshops near the end of the project. Patrick Falconer and Michael Case (The Project Group) were the external evaluators.

The Workers Compensation Board of Manitoba’s Community Initiatives and Research Program provided funding for this study. Janice Meszaros—the program’s Project Officer—was a valuable source of information.

Gary Annable

Project Manager