Search

Can I acknowledge Paul Jarvie, Chairman of the Occupational Health and Safety Industry Group, and other distinguished contributors to this important conference on challenges and changes in occupational health and safety.

Today I want to talk to you about:

• ACC’s performance and financial problems over time and in recent years

• The Government’s reform programme to address these issues and improve ACC

This morning the Government is releasing a discussion document on increasing choice in workplace accident compensation.

I want to put the case and need for reform.

I want to put it into historical context of New Zealand's unique system of Accident compensation.

I want to give you the detail of how this reform can deliver safer workplaces, better rehabilitation and lower costs.

Can I acknowledge Chris Blake, Chief Executive, Department of Labour and the team from the Department that has supported this important policy work. 

Mr Speaker, I move that the Injury Prevention, Rehabilitation, and Compensation Amendment Bill 2009 be now read a first time.

Thank you Jan and good afternoon to you all.

I would like to start by acknowledging Hon Nathan Guy and Pat Dougherty.