New Democrats table the Nortel long term disability protection act

OTTAWA – Today New Democrat Human Rights, Seniors, and Pensions Critic Wayne Marston announced the tabling of his Nortel Long Term Disability Protection Act in celebration of the International Day for Persons with Disabilities. Marston was joined by New Democrat Critic for Persons with Disabilities Judy Wasylycia-Leis.

The bill moves the long-term disabled to the front of the line during bankruptcy proceedings. It also extends similar protections for health benefits.
“Without government help, many people currently suffering from long term disabilities will end up on welfare because their medical expenses are so high that they have no other options,” said Marston.

Bringing employees with disabilities to the “front of the line” recognizes the vulnerability of this group, in much the same way that parking spaces and bus seats are reserved for the disabled.

The bill is named for Nortel employees with disabilities but is designed to help over 1 million employees in Canada whose disability benefits are self-insured by their employers.

“The social costs of leaving the long term disabled as unsecured creditors are very high, and will have to be borne by society in one way or another. Our bill ensures that the expenses will be covered by the estate of the employer who promised the benefits in the first place,” Marston continued.

Also accompanying Mr. Marston for the announcement were leaders from the Nortel Long Term Disability group.