Yes, thank you, Mr. Chairman. Mr. Chairman, I am please to be able to present the budget of the Workers' Compensation Board for 1992-93.

The major concerns of the board and their staff for the current year are presented in the written material which has been previously presented to the House, the annual report, and the Auditor General's Report. Concerns include:

- The development and delivery of workplace safety education programs, to emphasize the importance of a safe workplace for workers and employers;

- The enhancement of rehabilitation services to facilitate the return to work of injured workers, and reduce costs in the long-term; and

- that the appeal process for claimants and employers ensures fair and equitable treatment for all concerned.

Mr. Chairman, the budget represents both administrative and program expenditures. Whereas the administrative budget is very carefully planned and implemented, the expenditures for compensation, medical aid, pension awards, and rehabilitation programs are driven by the number and severity of claims made to the board.

The level of these costs are determined by the benefits defined by policy and legislation.

Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I would be pleased to answer any questions the Members of your committee may have. Thank you.