NLIS 6
October 6, 2000
(Environment and Labour)

Timeframe for labour relations review of offshore oil and gas 
fabrication and major construction sectors extended

In September, Environment and Labour Minister, Oliver Langdon, appointed Morgan Cooper, a labour relations consultant, to undertake a review of labour relations associated with the province�s offshore oil and gas fabrication sector for major construction projects. At that time, Mr. Cooper was requested to report on October 30, 2000. Today, the minister announced that the timeframe for submission of this report has been extended to December 15, 2000.

Mr. Cooper has been meeting with stakeholders involved in the fabrication sector of the offshore oil industry and major construction projects. He has indicated that more time is needed to ensure adequate opportunity for stakeholders to be part of the process.

The review is being carried out to determine if changes are required to the province�s labour legilsation to ensure a safe, stable and productive workplace for offshore fabrication and for future major construction projects.

"It is important that we ensure labour, management and other interested parties have adequate opportunity to discuss their views and suggestions as to how workers and management can work in partnership to continue to build Newfoundland�s reputation as a major player in the offshore fabrication industry," said the minister. "I would encourage stakeholders to work with the consultant to meet the December 15 timeframe so that this review can be completed in a timely manner."

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

2000 10 06 3:15 p.m.