The following is being distributed at the request of the Consultant responsible for the Fishing Industry Collective Bargaining Act Review:

Hearings schedule for Review of the Fishing Industry Collective Bargaining Act

David Jones, Q.C., Labour Relations Consultant, today announced a change in the tentative schedule for hearings to review the Fishing Industry Collective Bargaining Act.

"We are committed to ensuring all interested persons are given the opportunity to have input into this process," said Mr. Jones. "We intend to hold public meetings in Plum Point, L�Anse-Au-Clair, Mary�s Harbour, Cartwright, and Channel-Port Aux Basques, to which fish harvesters, plant workers, processors, and other interested and affected parties will be invited to come and express their views about the Fishing Industry Collective Bargaining Act, including the Final Offer Selection price-setting model and other related fisheries issues. These hearings will help us ensure we get a thorough and accurate understanding of the views of stakeholders, including the effects of the recent cod fishery closures on the industry. Should any interested party wish to speak with me privately, a meeting can be arranged upon request."

Mr. Jones was appointed by the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador on March 11, 2003, to review the Fishing Industry Collective Bargaining Act, including the effectiveness of the Final Offer Selection collective bargaining model, and to recommend measures that will enhance long-term labour relations stability in the province�s fishing industry. Consultations will be concluded by May 23, and Mr. Jones is to submit his report to government on June 20, 2003.

Public meetings will be held in the following places:

Interested persons wishing to attend a public meeting are not required to book an appointment. Individuals wishing to book a private hearing at these locations should contact the consultant. If there is sufficient interest, the consultant will consider holding public meetings or private hearings in other areas. For more information regarding this process or the meeting times, please contact the consultant by any of the following means.

Media contact:

2003 05 06                                      11:20 a.m.