Minister comments on recent discussions with NAPE and school boards

Labour Minister Anna Thistle today commented on continued discussions her senior officials had with the Newfoundland and Labrador Association of Public and Private Employees (NAPE) and the Newfoundland and Labrador School Boards Association over the weekend.

"Senior officials of my department have been maintaining contact with NAPE and the Newfoundland and Labrador School Boards Association since talks first began, and have been monitoring the situation closely since I met with each party separately last week," said Minister Thistle. "Although both parties are to be commended for their effort and cooperation in working with the Department of Labour in trying to find a resolution, up to this point a resolution has not been forthcoming.

"I have instructed my officials to remain available and to maintain continued dialogue with both parties until a resolution to this strike is found."

Media contact: Rebekah Winsor, Communications, (709) 729-1741.

2001 09 08                               2:50 p.m.