Government to give RNCA binding arbitration

President of Treasury Board Anna Thistle and Justice Minister and Attorney General Kelvin Parsons announced today that government has made the decision to draft legislation to amend the Royal Newfoundland Constabulary Act. This amendment will provide for binding arbitration.

Minister Thistle and Minister Parsons met with representatives of the RNCA earlier today informing them of government�s decision.

"We feel that binding arbitration is the most appropriate means of dispute resolution to have in place for our provincial police force. It is widely used to settle disputes in police jurisdictions across Canada," said Minister Thistle. "Government hopes that it can negotiate successfully with the RNCA in the upcoming collective bargaining process. However, should the process reach an impasse, we will have a means to help resolve outstanding issues."

"Government acknowledges that members of the RNC provide an essential service to the people of Newfoundland and Labrador," said Minister Parsons. "Now that we have a method to resolve disputes should they occur, government is demonstrating its commitment to maintaining the high quality of service provided by our police force."

The government will now draft legislation to amend the Royal Newfoundland Constabulary Act to include binding arbitration. It will become effective July 1, 2001.

Media contacts:

Carmel Parsons, Communications, Treasury Board (709) 729-6830
Kathy Dicks-Peyton, Communications, Justice (709) 729-6564.

2000 10 31 2:55 p.m.