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(Halifax) Contract talks between the Halifax Regional Water Commission (HRWC) and the union representing some 100 outside workers are going nowhere fast.

That blunt assessment comes today from CUPE Local 227, which says both sides are very close on the only outstanding issue - which is wages but the employer is refusing to budge.

CUPE National Representative Kathy MacLeod says the local will be taking the employers so-called final offer to its members on August 20, but the union is recommending it be rejected.

Says MacLeod, Our members voted 87% in favour of strike action back on July 23 and it would be a shame to see a disruption in service all because we cannot bridge a tiny gap on the wage issue.

What makes this situation particularly galling is that the Water Commission actually had a surplus of several million dollars last year. Were not talking about an employer thats hurting financially here, says MacLeod.

CUPE Local 227 members work in the HRWCs water and sewage treatment plants throughout the Halifax Regional Municipality.

Opeiu 491

For information:
Kathy MacLeod, CUPE National Representative
(902) 455-4180 (o) - (902) 578-4612 (Cell)
John McCracken, CUPE Communications Representative
(902) 455-4180 (o)