Consolidating Mechanical Shops Makes Sense

TRANSPORTATION/PUBLIC WORKS--Consolidating Mechanical Shops Makes Sense

The consolidation of department mechanical shops in no way compromises road safety, says Transportation and Public Works Minister Ron Russell.

"Closing our small shops in Amherst, New Glasgow, Port Hawkesbury and Baddeck is really a continuation of a program begun in the mid-90s," said Mr. Russell. "We now have highly trained mobile mechanics who do on-the-spot repairs, instead of taking heavy equipment into our bases. The system works. We know it's safe. We've been doing it for about six years."

Mr. Russell said cost-savings will help the department in its long-term strategy of addressing a $3.4-billion shortfall in road improvements that should be made over the next decade.

He adds that mechanical services will continue to be offered between Sydney and Antigonish by mobile mechanics located in Cape North, Strathlorne, Baddeck, Port Hawkesbury, Ashfield and St. Peter's.

Mr. Russell disputes the claim that the consolidation shows disrespect for the residents of Victoria County.

In fact, he said, our government has spent about $11.5 million in the past three years on road improvement projects in Victoria County.

Although 10 layoff notices were issued yesterday, nine new positions are being posted in other locations. The layoffs do not take effect until May 31, so affected employees have time to consider the options open to them. Those options include working in another group in the same geographic area where the employee has seniority, applying for one of the new postings, retiring, or participating in the government's Transition Support Program.