Five new cancer types added to firefighter coverage
Iain Hoey
Share this content
Prince Edward Island expands firefighter cancer coverage
The Government of Prince Edward Island has announced that five additional cancer types have been included in the province’s presumptive cancer coverage for firefighters.
According to the Government of Prince Edward Island, the updated coverage applies to paid and volunteer firefighters, as well as fire inspectors.
The Workers Compensation Board (WCB) will administer the coverage, which now includes cervical, ovarian, penile, pancreatic and thyroid cancers.
The government stated that these additions bring the total number of recognised cancer types under the programme to 19.
Presumptive coverage means that when a firefighter or inspector is diagnosed with a listed primary cancer, it is assumed to be work-related unless evidence is presented to the contrary.
Minister says changes support inclusivity and equity
The announcement was made by Jenn Redmond, Minister of Workforce, Advanced Learning and Population and the Minister responsible for the Status of Women.
Minister Redmond said: “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.”
The statement follows broader calls for expanded coverage that reflects the evolving demographic of the fire service.
WCB to administer expanded compensation
Dan Campbell, Chief Executive Officer of the Workers Compensation Board, welcomed the move.
Campbell said: “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 this coverage, which strengthens protections for those who so bravely protect us.”
The WCB stated that its role will involve assessing claims under the new eligibility terms and ensuring consistency with the Workers Compensation Act.
Local association supports expanded firefighter benefits
The PEI Firefighters Association also expressed support for the new coverage.
Association President Gerard McMahon said: “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.”
The Association noted that the inclusion of additional cancer types reflects the occupational health realities of modern firefighting.
McMahon added that clear eligibility under the presumptive framework helps reduce delays and uncertainty for affected members.
Coverage applies across multiple firefighter roles
According to the provincial government, the changes apply to all eligible fire inspectors, full-time firefighters, and volunteers who are active members of a fire department or brigade.
The eligibility criteria remain governed by the Workers Compensation Act and the associated administrative procedures outlined by the WCB.
The government confirmed that firefighters diagnosed with one of the newly listed cancer types may now qualify for compensation if other criteria are met.
Further details, including specific eligibility timelines and submission procedures, are available through the provincial WCB’s online guidance.
Prince Edward Island expands firefighter cancer coverage: Summary
The Government of Prince Edward Island has expanded its presumptive cancer coverage for firefighters.
The additions include cervical, ovarian, penile, pancreatic and thyroid cancers.
Coverage is administered by the Workers Compensation Board.
Presumptive coverage assumes listed cancers are work-related unless proven otherwise.
This change brings the total covered cancer types to 19.
Eligible personnel include full-time, volunteer and inspector roles.
Minister Jenn Redmond announced the expansion.
Dan Campbell of the WCB supported the change.
The PEI Firefighters Association also welcomed the update.
Coverage applies to qualifying roles across the fire service.
Details are provided by the WCB of Prince Edward Island.