What’s new: In brief (June 29, 2004)

The Alberta government is seeking input on potential changes to its Health Information Act (HIA). An all-party committee is reviewing the legislation, put in place three years ago to limit access to personal health information. A consultation guide is available at www.hiareview.assembly.ab.ca as well as information on submitting feedback.

LAWPRO (Lawyers Professional Indemnity Company) is moving into Manitoba after developing a partnership with Winnipeg-based Reider Insurance Services to distribute the title insurance product to lawyers in the province. This means the coverage is now available in every province except Quebec.

Endurance Specialty Holding’s subsidiaries have been assigned a financial strength rating of “A2” by Moody’s Investor Service. The rater praised the Bermuda-based insurer/reinsurer’s emphasis on technical underwriting and risk management, and solid profitability. Moody’s also assigned a prospective debt ratings for the company’s US$500 million shelf registration: “Baa1” for senior unsecured debt; “Baa2” for subordinated unsecured debt; and “Baa3” for preferred stock.