Wednesday, March 27, 2002 (Fredericton) – The New Brunswick Council of School District Unions announced today that channels of communication with the government have once again opened up.
“We are optimistic that these discussions will lead to progress in bargaining,” said CUPE Representative Robert Hickes. “Our members are committed to working as hard as we can to see this process through to a settlement and to avoid any disruptions.”
The union will be in a legal strike position as of midnight tonight. However, the public will be given 24 hours notice, in order to make necessary plans.
“Our members don’t want a strike,” continued Hickes. “However we are prepared to do what it takes to achieve a contract that is fair and that will foster a safe and healthy environment in our schools for workers and students.”
Outstanding issues include workload, job security and contracting out, as well as wages and joint trusteeship of the pension plan.
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For more information:
Robert Hickes, (506) 473-0813 (cell)
Don Dub,0020President, NB Council of School District Unions, (506) 643-0470 (cell)