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(St. Johns) Member of the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) are mobilizing for a massive rally on Monday, April 26th, to demonstrate the depth of opposition to Premier Williams decision to legislate back-to-work orders and concessions to end the longest public sector strike in provincial history.

Wayne Lucas, President of CUPE Newfoundland & Labrador, is determined that Mondays rally will be a mobilization that Williams cant ignore.

Our members are standing fast against Williams assault on their rights and their livelihoods, he said. The morale on picket lines remains high, and people from the community are coming forward every day with their support on the lines.

Lucas said he was galvanized by the steadfastness of CUPE members across the province, and encouraged by their determination. He acknowledged that this has been an extremely challenging time for his members and the province at large, saying he was deeply disappointed in the Premiers approach.

We wish that the Premier could see the wisdom in negotiating a fair settlement, he said.

Back-to-work legislation is being drafted over the weekend and will likely be introduced on Monday, April 26th. But it could take as long as a week to pass the House of Assembly. Both CUPE and NAPE are waiting to see what the legislation entails and will be consulting with their lawyers on the legislations implications as soon as possible.

Last night, the Newfoundland & Labrador Federation of Labour convened a meeting to discuss a coordinated response to Williams unprecedented attack on workers rights. About 30 unions attended and expressed solidarity and solid support for both CUPE and NAPE, vowing to do everything they can.

A Solidarity Committee was formed and has begun immediate preparations for its first action, Mondays rally.

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For more information:
Wayne Lucas, President, CUPE Newfoundland & Labrador, cell 727 2509
David Robbins, CUPE Communications, cell 613 878 1431