I stand today to inform the people of our province that government has decided not to appeal the decision of the Supreme Court of Newfoundland and Labrador with respect to pay equity for government employees in the hospital HS (hospital support) sector.

The implementation of this final adjustment to pay equity will see the date for implementing the classes onto scale in accordance with the arbitrator�s original ruling.

Government feels this decision is fair and to appeal further would only be a disservice to our employees. The decision will cost government approximately $4 million per year. This is a good news announcement for these employees and will bring resolution to pay equity issue for these workers.

2002 03 12                          5:15 p.m.