Ontario’s safe employers receiving up to $1.5 billion rebate
Rebates will be distributed starting in April
Ontario’s safe employers are receiving a rebate of up to $1.5 billion as Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB) surplus funds are returned for the first time.
The rebate will give 300,000 businesses back approximately 30 per cent of their annual premium payments.
Monte McNaughton, Minister of Labour, Training and Skills Development made the announcement at a news conference in Barrie on Wednesday.
“After historic underfunding and mismanagement, Premier Ford and I are creating generational change at the WSIB to ensure it is working for workers,” said McNaughton.
“We are getting cheques in the mail for businesses on Main Street who need this relief so they can pay their workers more, create new jobs, and grow our economy.
McNaughton says he will make more announcements in the coming weeks regarding other supports for Ontario workers.
The surplus distribution will only be provided to safe employers, who will receive their rebates starting in April.
For a business with 80 to 125 employees, they could receive $28,000 to reinvest in their business and workers.
“Ontario businesses are paying the lowest average premium rate in more than 20 years,” said Grant Walsh, Chair of the WSIB.
“With solid financial management we can give this rebate to businesses at a time when they need it most while protecting coverage for people injured at work.”
Banner image – Barrie 360/Coady Fitzgerald