List of presumed cancers for firefighters to be included in proposed Workers’ Safety and Compensation Act

This fall, the Government of Yukon will table the most progressive Workers’ Compensation Bill in the country.

The legislation will include the broadest array of presumptive cancers in the country to protect full- and part-time and volunteer Yukon firefighters who, through their valiant work, are often placed at higher risk of illness. This list will also include thyroid and pancreatic cancer, which makes it the most comprehensive coverage in the country.

The inclusion of these cancers will come into force immediately upon assent should this nation-leading Workers’ Safety and Compensation Bill pass in the Legislative Assembly.

We have met with firefighters and listened to their concerns. I would like to thank them for their patience while we completed a detailed review on the proposed list of cancers that are presumed to be work-related for firefighters. The resulting list will make the Yukon a leader with the most comprehensive presumptive coverage for firefighters in Canada.

Minister responsible for the Yukon Workers’ Compensation Health and Safety Board Richard Mostyn

The Yukon is showing how it is supportive of fire fighters. In fact, it is showing how it is the most supportive. It will give others across the country and the globe hope. Our firefighters give everything for their communities and they deserve the best there is. Now, here in the Yukon, they will have the best.

Nicholas O’Carroll, International Association of Fire Fighters, Local 2217 Whitehorse

Quick facts 
  • The current list includes the following cancers: primary leukemia, primary non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, primary site bladder cancer, primary site brain cancer, primary site colorectal cancer, primary site esophageal cancer, primary site kidney cancer, primary site lung cancer, primary site testicular cancer, primary site ureter cancer and any prescribed form of cancer.

  • The proposed list also includes thyroid and pancreatic cancer, multiple myeloma, primary site prostate cancer, primary site skin cancer, primary site breast cancer, primary site cervical cancer, primary site ovarian cancer and primary site penile cancer.

  • If passed in the Legislative Assembly, the Workers’ Safety and Compensation Act will replace the Workers’ Compensation Act and the Occupational Health and Safety Act.

Media contact 

Renée Francoeur
Cabinet Communications
867-334-9194
renee.francoeur@yukon.ca

News release #: 
21-350