Minister Appoints Arbitrator in Police Dispute

Environment and Labour Minister Kerry Morash today, Sept. 30, appointed Milton Veniot to arbitrate the labour-management dispute between the Cape Breton Regional Municipality and the Nova Scotia Government and General Employees union, representing police personnel.

Mr. Veniot, a veteran Pictou lawyer, has arbitrated a number of collective agreement disputes in the past.

"The appointment of an interest arbitrator is the dispute-breaking mechanism applicable to police negotiations and is part of the collective bargaining process," Mr. Morash said.

"I'm confident Mr. Veniot's experience and expertise will resolve the situation."

The Trade Union Act requires the minister to appoint an arbitrator if either of the parties to the dispute requests one.

The arbitrator has the power to render a binding settlement.