February 24, 1999
(Justice)

Cabinet announces decision on RNC award

Justice Minister Paul Dicks announced today that in accordance with Section 53 of the RNC Act, the provincial cabinet has reviewed the non-binding arbitration award for members of the RNC.

"While government was in a position to approve many items in the arbitration review, issues involving salary, standby and the term of the contract were modified," Minister Dicks stated. "In accordance with other bargaining that has concluded, a decision has been made to give a seven per cent wage increase over a 39 month period." Items such as hours of work, injury on duty, right to legal counsel and staff availability in some jurisdictions have been approved by government.

"As no other resolution to this matter has been found through recent negotiations, government has no choice but to modify the award so that it is consistent with settlements reached with other public sectors employees," Dicks said. "This is a clear reflection of the province's ability to offer wage increases to public sector workers, taking into account the province's fiscal realities."

The seven per cent salary settlement has been negotiated for more than 80 per cent of the province's public servants. "Given the long period of salary restraint, it is important for government to utilize limited funds for salary increases equitably," Minister Dicks continued.

Media Contact: David Wells, Communications 709-729-6830.

1999 02 24 6:00 p.m.