Cullen shuts out private insurers

By RICHARD BRADDELL

WELLINGTON - ACC Minister Michael Cullen has closed the gate on any private sector insurers wanting business under the accredited employers' scheme when workplace accident insurance returns to an ACC monopoly in July.

"An important concept behind the scheme is that employers will have responsibility for and a direct financial interest in the safety of their own workplace," Dr Cullen said.

"They must agree to have no other insurance covering accidents, and they cannot reinsure or contract out of their agreed responsibilities."

ACC is to begin a national roadshow next week, presenting "partnering programme briefings" to give details of the new relationship between ACC and employers.

The accredited employers' scheme was approved by the Cabinet this week.

Dr Cullen said it would give employers a direct financial interest in workplace safety and injury rehabilitation.

Employers can choose between full self-cover or a partnership discount plan. But while private insurers will be excluded, scope exists for third party providers in areas such as rehabilitation, if employers have personal involvement in a claim's progress. To be eligible employers must meet a list of qualifications including having experience in managing occupational health and safety.