Yellowknife (Dec 17/03) - One man is making every attempt to ensure the new government understands the problem he has with the Workers' Compensation Board.

John Huffman - Colleen Moore/NNSL photo

While new members of the legislative assembly were being sworn in Dec. 11, John Huffman stood outside, surrounded by signs protesting against WCB's treatment of injured workers.

Huffman, who has been an electrician since the age of 19, said he now suffers from three long-term injuries, but is constantly being denied compensation. "This has been ongoing eight years now," he said. "If you ever get hurt, it's a long, uphill battle."

Huffman said he is frustrated because his injuries are work-related, but the WCB doctor tends to disagree. "He told me that my injury is from playing the guitar," said Huffman. "I don't play the guitar."

Huffman said he has spoken with a number of the MLAs about his concerns, including the minister formerly responsible for WCB, Joe Handley. He said he hopes they take this issue seriously.