Mediator Appointed in RRSS Dispute

Environment and Labour Minister Ron Russell has appointed lawyer Bruce Outhouse to mediate the labour dispute between the Regional Residential Services Society (RRSS) and the Nova Scotia Government and General Employees Union (NSGEU). Members of the RRSS, who work in group homes, have been on strike since April 10.

"Mr. Outhouse has been successful in bringing about positive conclusions to previous mediation cases," said Mr. Russell. "He is recognized as a noted and successful mediator and is known for his fairness."

In June 2001, Mr. Outhouse served as the mediator in a successful conclusion to the dispute between the QEII Health Sciences and Nova Scotia hospital, and the Capital District Health Association.

The minister stated that the appointment of a mediator is a normal dispute-settling mechanism and part of collective bargaining.