Support staff of District No. 8 in the Bonavista-Clarenville area walked off the job this morning in a contract dispute with the School Board.

The decision to withdraw services by NAPE support staff forcing the closure of some schools on the Bonavista Peninsula has drawn criticism from Education Minister Roger Grimes.

Mr. Grimes accused NAPE officials of being irresponsible and ignoring the needs of students.

"All outstanding issues with this particular bargaining unit have been resolved with the exception of retroactivity and hours of work. The union has a course of action available to it to address these matters through the grievance and arbitration process," said the minister.

Mr. Grimes called upon NAPE officials to return to work immediately and to deal with this matter through the proper channels.

"It is totally unnecessary for students to be used as pawns in a labour dispute that has nothing to do with them," said Minister Grimes.

In the event of a lengthy dispute, the minister has asked school board officials to immediately establish a contingency plan to ensure the students' education is not threatened and that schools remain open.

Contact: Carl Cooper, Communications: (709) 729-0048