November 28, 1996
(Environment and Labour)

Labour Relations Group presents report to government

Kevin Aylward, Minister of Environment and Labour, today released the final report of the Labour Relations Working Group, entitled, New Century - New Realities: Creating a Framework Together. The working group was established by the Advisory Council on the Economy (ACE) to review current labour legislation and propose recommendations that would ensure the kind of labour legislation required for the 21st century.

The Labour Relations Working Group is comprised of senior management and labour leaders and is chaired by David Alcock, with vice- chairs Elaine Price and Charles Rennie. Other members include William Alcock, Dave Curtis, William Dawson, Leonard Knox, Earle McCurdy, Gerard McDonald, William Parsons, John Peddle, Michael Power and Ronald Smith.

The report represents the culmination of 14 months of deliberations, consultations and research by the working group. It details a listing of 48 recommendations that address issues such as education, cooperation, consolidation, communication, alternative dispute settlement mechanisms with particular emphasis on timing and cost, construction industry issues, replacement workers, essential services, and the Labour Relations Board. The minister commended the working group for the amount of work it put into this effort as is demonstrated by the kind of recommendations they put forward.

"The recommendations contained in the report reflect the group's cooperative effort, based on consultation, consensus and working together toward a common goal. On behalf of the province, I want to thank the working group for meeting this challenge and for providing government with a blueprint that will help put this province in the forefront of labour-management relations as the 21st century approaches," he said.

The recommendations are intended to provide a more harmonious and cooperative labour relations climate; to address new workplace issues; to enhance dispute settlement mechanisms; provide joint education and training for labour relations practitioners; to provide for the consistent and fair treatment of all employees/employers; administrative and operational efficiencies in the application of the legislation; open communication and access to information; to redefine government's role as an employer; and provide essential services and enhanced accountability.

Contact: Teddy Ryan, Director of Communications, (709) 729-2575.