Ottawa, Ontario, November 19, 2013—

The Honourable Jason Kenney, Minister of Employment and Social Development and Minister for Multiculturalism, today announced the appointment of Sandeep Chauhan, Lucie Leduc, Hazelyn Ross and Joanne Sajtos as full-time members of the new Social Security Tribunal (SST).

The new SST is a single decision-making body that consolidates the work previously done by four separate tribunals. By offering one point of contact for submitting an appeal, it simplifies the appeal processes, while ensuring continued access to administrative justice for appellants and providing greater value for Canadians.

“The members and staff of the new Social Security Tribunal are implementing simplified, efficient and effective appeal processes that will improve administrative justice for Canadians. They are committed to operating a tribunal that is fair, credible, impartial and independent,” said Minister Kenney. “The new members bring a wide variety of professional experience, education and exemplary leadership skills, making them excellent additions to the SST.”

Mr. Chauhan’s, Ms. Leduc’s, Ms. Ross’ and Ms. Sajtos’ appointments are effective as of November 23, 2013. 

The SST is comprised of two levels of appeal. The General Division, the first level of appeal, includes an Employment Insurance (EI) Section for EI appeals, and an Income Security Section for Canada Pension Plan (CPP) and Old Age Security (OAS) appeals. TheAppeal Division is the second level of appeal as it decides appeals of decisions made by the General Division.

To date, 54 members, in addition to the Chairperson and three vice-chairpersons, have been appointed from all regions of the country to ensure regional representation and fairness of decisions. The SST began its operations on April 1, 2013.

By:IANS