Thank You to Snow and Ice Control Workers
TRANSPORTATION/PUBLIC WORKS--Thank You to Snow and Ice Control Workers
Nova Scotians are saying thank you to snow and ice control workers around the province.
Beginning Saturday, March 29, newspaper and radio advertisements will thank the employees of the Department of Transportation and Public Works and private contractors who worked around the clock this year.
"It was one long, hard winter, and workers around the province worked tirelessly to provide safer roads for Nova Scotians," said Michael Baker, Minister of Transportation and Public Works. "On behalf of Nova Scotians, I want to say thanks to everyone who took part in helping in our winter maintenance efforts."
"It's great that the department, and in particular the minister, is recognizing the dedication and the work that all employees do on a yearly basis," said Gareth Drinnan, president of the Nova Scotia Highway Workers union, CUPE Local 1867. "Staff give up their winters to serve the public, working day and night to ensure safer roads. Even now, staff are available to respond in case of a storm."
The advertisements, which will appear in local newspapers and on radio stations, will say in part: "When storms hit, you worked in difficult, often dangerous conditions. On behalf of all Nova Scotians, thanks for making life a little bit easier. We appreciate what you do."
About 1,000 employees of the department are assigned to snow and ice control duties. The province is responsible for 26,000 kilometres of roads and highways, and typically spends between $36 million and $40 million a year on snow and ice removal. Four hundred plows, including graders, trucks and four-wheel drive vehicles are used for winter maintenance.
Mr. Baker said the province provides snow and ice control coverage 24-hours a day, seven days a week, and employees are expected to be ready for duty at all times.
"It's one of the few jobs where you head outside, instead of inside, during a blizzard," said Mr. Baker. "My hat goes off to them."