by Scott Waide – EM TV News, Lae
The government is now calling on all stakeholders to participate in a review of the Workers Compensation Act.
The review, which began today, is aimed as adjusting the laws so that they complement the changes in the country.
Labor and Industrial Relations Minister, Benjamin Poponawa, says penalties for non-compliance by employers also need to be increased.
The last review of the workers compensation act was in 1990.
For the last two and a half decades, the workers compensation act has not been adjusted to suit growing changes in Papua New Guinea’s industries.
Today marked the start of changes to the Workers compensation act.A law that is aimed at protecting employees and their families who die or suffer injuries at the work place.
Labour and industrial relations minister, Benjamin Poponawa says the compensation rates and the penalties for non-compliance need to be increased.
Under the current law, the maximum compensation a worker can receive is K25,000 and benefits to dependents of deceased workers amount to K10 per week.
The review will also seek to align Papua New Guinea with global changes as the country moves into becoming a major regional player.
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