Workers Compensation Appeal Tribunal

The Workers Compensation Appeal Tribunal (WCAT) is a quasi-judicial body authorized to conduct hearings/appeals from interested parties, mostly injured workers and employers, who are dissatisfied with a decision of the Internal Reconsideration Officer of the Workers Compensation Board (WCB), and any matter referred to it by the Board.

What is the function of the Tribunal?

The Workers Compensation Appeal Tribunal (WCAT) is the final level of appeal in the workers compensation structure in Prince Edward Island.  The Tribunal hears appeals from final decisions of the Internal Reconsideration Officer (IRO) of the Workers Compensation Board (WCB).  Its role is to review WCB decisions to ensure they are in compliance with the Workers Compensation Act, Regulations and Board Policies.  

WCAT is legally and administratively separate from WCB, ensuring an independent and impartial review of WCB decisions.  However, the Tribunal is bound by the Act, regulations and policies of the Board. 
 

Primary Role: Adjudicative

How many people are on the Tribunal?

There is no set number of members for the Tribunal. There tribunal has one chair, several vice-chairs and approximately equal numbers of employer and employee representatives from across different regions of Prince Edward Island. All members will be selected from applicants who have applied through Engage PEI. 

What are the requirements of the board members?

Work and Experience Requirements
The chair and vice-chairs are typically members of the legal profession, or persons with experience in administrative law. Medical and or/legal knowledge or background or previous administrative tribunal experience would be an asset. Knowledge of the Workers Compensation Act would be an asset.  

Skills Required
Computer skills, medical and/or legal knowledge would be an asset. Sound judgment and an ability to be impartial.

Will I be paid?

The side panel members will receive an honorarium for hearings, as well as be eligible for reimbursement of certain expenses, such as mileage. 

Members - $142/hearing

What is the time commitment of the organization?

WCAT hearings are be scheduled on an as needed basis. The number of hearings scheduled during a year is dependent on the number of appeals filed, which varies year to year. When a member is asked to sit on a panel, the usual practice is to schedule two hearings per day, once in the morning and one in the afternoon. Members of the panel will need to review hearing materials prior to the hearing date. It is considered an asset if a member can be available on short notice.  

If you would like to serve as a member of a provincial government agency, board, or commission (ABC) you can apply online through Engage PEI.  

Who can I contact?

Patricia McPhail
Director, Labour and Industrial Relations
Sherwood Business Centre
161 St. Peters Road
PO Box 2000 Charlottetown, PE C1A 7N8 
Phone: 902-569-0545
Toll-free: 1-800-333-4362
Email:  phmcphail@gov.pe.ca