Settlement Fair to Workers, Affordable to Taxpayers

PREMIER'S OFFICE--Settlement Fair to Workers, Affordable to Taxpayers

Premier John Hamm today announced that a new method to settle the health-care labour dispute has been reached with the Nova Scotia Government and General Employees Union (NSGEU) and the Nova Scotia Nurses Union (NSNU).

Final offer selection, which will allow both parties to present their views for consideration by an independent third party, was agreed to by all parties following several days of dialogue between officials from the Department of Environment and Labour, the NSGEU and the NSNU.

"I believe this method will also recognize the responsibility of the province to pay its bills without borrowing money," said the premier. "It also recognizes the ability of taxpayers to meet the fiscal challenges facing them."

The next step is to allow both the employer and employee representatives to submit final offers to the third party.

The third party may choose only one of the two offers, and the decision will be binding. Premier Hamm reiterated his commitment for a permanent mechanism to resolve labour disputes in essential services. Once in place, the new mechanism will replace Bill 68.

"This is important so that we will never go through a similar experience again," added the premier.

Health Minister Jamie Muir said he is pleased that health workers can now return to their jobs serving patients and delivering quality health care.