Thank you, Mr. Speaker. First of all, let me say that the Workers' Compensation board of directors, and its appeal committee, under the chairmanship of Mr. Bourque, is fully aware of the frustration of injured workers whose claims are before the appeals board. But, I think we have to put it in perspective.

Last year, the WCB took care of 3,758 claims. I stated in the House the other day that, while it is unfortunate that it does take a lengthy period -- as Mr. Whitford has said -- to deal with these issues, we have currently 44 outstanding appeals. I think there are three pending. I want to assure the honourable Member that we are equally as concerned about the appeals process as those who are appealing.

I said the other day that Mr. Bourque has made a commitment to sit for the next six months on a continuous basis, in a serious and genuine effort to clear up these appeals. Thank you.