Both sides in the labour dispute between CUPE Local 227 and the Halifax Regional Water Commission (HRWC) have agreed to return to the bargaining table.
CUPE National Representative Marianne Welsh says, “Both sides have agreed to resume talks with a Conciliation Officer from the Department of Labour at the earliest available date.
“The 225 water and wastewater employees who provide HRM residents with clean and safe water and keep our sewage system running year-round and in all kinds of weather are trying very hard to avoid a disruption in service and reach a deal.
“As the largest union in the country, CUPE prides itself on reaching fair settlements for our members. Ninety-five per cent of our contracts are settled peacefully, and that’s a track record we’re proud of,” says Welsh.
The HRWC workers are currently in a legal strike position, which means they can exercise their legal right to strike following 48 hours notice to Minister of Labour.