The Honourable Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, has taken steps to find a solution in the ongoing labour dispute with the Canadian Service Merchant Guild.

Earlier today (Wednesday, September 9), Premier Furey met with Wabana Mayor Gary Gosine, Brian Dwyer of the Bell Island Ferry Users Committee and Fogo Island Mayor Wayne Collins to hear first-hand the impact the strike action is having on affected residents of the province.

Premier Furey today reached out to the Honourable Gerry Byrne, Minister of Immigration, Skills and Labour, to request conciliation services from the Labour Relations Division of his department, to assist the parties involved in resolving outstanding issues to bring an end to the ferry disruptions.

The Labour Relations Division is responsible for serving employees and employers who operate within the framework of the collective bargaining system.

Quotes
“I am hopeful both parties will participate in the process to bring this dispute to a timely resolution in the best interest of the people of Newfoundland and Labrador.”
Honourable Andrew Furey
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador

“As Minister responsible for the Labour Relations Division, I encourage the parties to review their positions with a goal of finding a resolution to the outstanding issues.”
Honourable Gerry Byrne
Minister of Immigration, Skills and Labour

– 30 –

Media contacts
Meghan McCabe
Office of the Premier
709-729-3960, 725-9231
meghanmccabe@gov.nl.ca

Ryan Crocker
Immigration, Skills and Labour
709-729-1795, 725-9595
ryancrocker@gov.nl.ca