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August 27, 2002 (Fredericton) The union representing 13 groups of front-line professionals including social workers notified the provincial government yesterday of its intent to strike.

The Lord government has been given many chances to demonstrate a willingness to negotiate in good faith and they have failed miserably, said Anne Hogan, President of Local 1418. We have set up strike headquarters in every region of the province. Our members are ready for a strike.

CUPE 1418 held a strike vote last June. Eighty-nine per cent of the more than 1,200 members turned out to vote, and of those who voted, 93% voted in favour of strike action. However, the local waited to file notice with the Labour Board, in the hopes that a contract could be achieved through negotiation. Under New Brunswick law, official notice must be filed seven days before a strike can begin.

Despite the fact that government negotiators engaged in outrageous divide and conquer tactics, our members continue to stand together, said Anne Hogan. We will achieve a fair contract that includes a wage increase for all classifications and measures to address the crisis in recruitment and retention.

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For more information:
Anne Hogan, President, CUPE 1418,
(506) 856-3020 (o), (506) 858-9960 (h)
Laurie Kingston, CUPE Communications,
(613) 266-1415 (cell)