Institutionalizing failure : the evolution of the worker's compensation system in Nova Scotia

Abstract

This thesis takes a strategic look at the evolution of the compensation system in Nova Scotia placing contemporary policy debates in their historical context. Where did the system come from? How and why has it evolved? The origins of the compensation system combine the complexity of medical research and practice, with tort and statute law, economic growth, social policy, political science and labour relations. This thesis is titled Institutionalizing Failure . The title reflects the author's concern that the Nova Scotia compensation system has become so dominated by its insurance subsystem that it has become disconnected from its social policy role and its injury prevention function. The government with the exception of its legislative and oversight roles has become disengaged from the system. It defers to groups of labour and management representatives who steer and finance the individual boards, tribunals and advisory bodies that administer the subcomponents of the system. The focus has become short-term and issue-oriented preventing a comprehensive understanding of the system and its effectiveness.