Government announces review of labour standards legislation

Environment and Labour Minister Oliver Langdon announced today the appointment of a labour standards board to conduct a review of the province�s Labour Standards Act and Regulations.

The Labour Standards Act and Regulations establishes the minimum terms and conditions of employment in the province including vacation pay, weekly hours of work, and overtime rates of pay. The legislation provides basic protection for workers.

Mr. James Oakley will serve as chairperson of the board, Mr. Greg Pretty will represent employees and Ms. Janet Kelly will represent employers.

Mr. Oakley is a respected lawyer in the province and brings to his role as chairperson a wealth of experience and knowledge in the field of labour-management relations. Mr. Pretty is a staff representative with the FFAW/CAW and has an in-depth understanding of the province�s labour legislation. Ms. Kelly is a successful entrepreneur and owner of Auntie Crae�s Bakery and Cafe and brings to the board a wealth of practical experience in employee/employer relations.

Government is asking the labour standards board to seek the public�s views on labour standards issues including those identified in a discussion paper prepared by the Department of Environment and Labour. A copy of this paper can be obtained by calling toll-free 1-877-563-1063 or through the website at www.gov.nl.ca/env/.

The board will hold public meetings in Grand Falls-Windsor on March 14, Corner Brook on March 15, Happy Valley-Goose Bay on March 16 and St. John�s on March 28 and 29. The specific details of these forums will be advertised using local media. Persons and groups unable to appear before the board may forward their comments by e-mail at labourstandardsboard@mail.gov.nf.ca, fax at (709) 729-5738, mail to Labour Standards Board c/o Department of Environment and Labour, P.O. Box 8700, Third Floor, Beothuck Building, 20 Crosbie Place, St. John�s, NF A1B 4J6, or by calling the toll-free number noted above.

"The review and consultation process is meant to strengthen the relationships between workers and employers throughout the province," said Minister Langdon. "Every Newfoundlander and Labradorian is invited to provide their feedback to the board."

The board will report back to the minister by the end of April 2000.

Media contact: Sean Kelly, Communications, ( 709) 729-2575.

2000 02 21                                                 3:15 p.m.