I would like to point out, first of all, Mr. Speaker, that the gentleman camped outside is one of 44 and he has chosen to demonstrate his frustration by doing that. However, there are 43 other appeals under consideration at this time. I have been advised by the chairman of the WCB, Mr. Gilmour, that the board considered a proposal developed by Mr. Bourque, the chairman of the appeals committee in which he asked for the financial resources to sit for six months to try to deal, as quickly as possible, with this unfortunate situation and the length of time it takes to deal with appeals.
The board of directors have given approval, in principle, to the proposal, pending total approval of the operating budget at the next meeting of the board on December 13. So, we have approval, in principle, to proceed with a six month sitting of the appeals committee to deal urgently with the 44 appeals we currently have and the three that are pending. I'm optimistic, with Mr. Bourque's support, that we will be in a reasonable position six months from now and that these appeals will be heard.
I think it is also important to point out, if I may, that an appeal is an appeal. Based on what I've read and what I've seen, approximately 20 per cent of the appeals are overturned. Thank you.