Income support services to continue during public sector strike

The Department of Human Resources, Labour and Employment would like to advise the public that the Income Support Program will continue to be delivered during the strike by public sector employees. Services such as income support payments, drug cards, on-call services and emergency assistance will be available to clients.

During the labour dispute, the following offices will be closed:

St. John�s Centre, Conception Bay South, Bell Island, Ferryland, Bay Roberts, Whitbourne, Placentia, St. Mary�s, Bonavista, Marystown, Bay L�Argent, Gander, Wesleyville, Twillingate, Fogo, Botwood, St. Alban�s, Harbour Breton, Springdale, St. Anthony, Englee, Bonne Bay, Deer Lake, Channel, Burgeo, Stephenville, Piccadilly, Nain, Hopedale, Cartwright, Forteau, Mary�s Harbour, Wabush.

It is anticipated that these temporary closures will have a minimal impact on clients. During the strike, clients who call their office will have their calls automatically forwarded to an office that will remain open. This will be done at no cost to our clients.

Again, clients needing assistance are asked to call their regular office number, even if

the office is one that has been temporarily closed. Every effort will be made to address clients� needs as quickly as possible.

Media contact: Jacquelyn Howard, Communications, (709) 729-4062

2004 04 01                                        9:20 a.m.