Tentative agreement reached

Premier Roger Grimes and President of Treasury Board Joan Marie Aylward, announced today that a tentative agreement has been reached with NAPE and CUPE. The premier said the unions will recommend ratification to their members and send it to a vote as soon as possible. The tentative agreement will see public sector workers back on the job today.

"I am delighted we were able to reach an agreement and put an end to the strike," said the premier. "Government appreciates the work of our employees and we were happy to provide a raise which can be sustained for them in the years to come."

"While there were some anxious times for everyone in the province, I commend the unions and the government negotiators for their hard work and long hours in putting this agreement together," said Minister Aylward. "Our employees deserve this type of agreement and I am sure the people of the province will be happy to get things back to normal."

Details of the tentative agreement which was reached early Friday morning will not be discussed until it is ratified by government employees.

Media contact: Glenn Bruce, Communications, 722-7984.

2001 04 06 1:25 a.m.