Five more types of cancer added under presumptive coverage for firefighters

The provincial government has expanded presumptive cancer coverage for firefighters to include five additional types of cancer. 

Under the Workers Compensation Act, presumptive cancer coverage means that it is presumed that a primary cancer for a fire inspector or firefighter is work related, unless proven to the contrary. Eligible firefighters include fire inspectors, paid firefighters and volunteer firefighters who are members of a fire department or fire brigade.

The following primary cancer types have been added to the coverage administered by the Workers Compensation Board (WCB): 

• Cervical cancer
• Ovarian cancer
• Penile cancer
• Pancreatic cancer
• Thyroid cancer

With these additions, the presumptive cancer coverage for firefighters includes a total of 19 recognized cancer types.

Quotes: 

“Firefighters put their lives on the line every day to keep our communities safe and they deserve not only our thanks but our full support. Expanding presumptive cancer coverage to include cervical and ovarian cancers is a necessary step toward inclusive, comprehensive care for all who serve.”
“Firefighters put their lives on the line every day to keep our communities safe and they deserve not only our thanks but our full support. Expanding presumptive cancer coverage to include cervical and ovarian cancers is a necessary step toward inclusive, comprehensive care for all who serve.”

— Jenn Redmond, Minister of Workforce, Advanced Learning and Population and the Minister responsible for the Status of Women.

“We commend the Government of PEI for expanding presumptive cancer coverage for firefighters. These additions to the coverage recognize the serious risks these workers face in the line of duty. It also recognizes the growing diversity in the firefighting workforce. At the WCB, we are proud to administer the coverage, which strengthens protections for those who so bravely protect us.”

— Dan Campbell, CEO of the Workers Compensation Board

“The PEI Firefighters Association appreciates these efforts made to increase health coverage for volunteer and career firefighters on Prince Edward Island. This will give piece of mind to our firefighters and their families.
”

— Gerard McMahon, President of the PEI Firefighters Association

For more information about the coverage visit Presumptive Cancer Coverage for Firefighters.

Media contacts:
Brooke Miller
Department of Workforce, Advanced Learning and Population
bmmiller@gov.pe.ca

Dominque Chouinard
Workers Compensation Board of PEI
dxchouinard@wcb.pe.ca