The following statement was issued today by Kevin Aylward, Minister of Environment and Labour. It was also read in the House of Assembly:

I have been advised by letter dated May 12, 1997 from Mr. William Parsons, Executive Director, Newfoundland and Labrador Building and Construction Trades Council that a collective agreement between Newfoundland Transshipment and Newfoundland and Labrador Building and Construction Trades Council has now been finalized. The agreement covers all work at the Whiffen Head site for the Newfoundland Transshipment Project. It provides for industrial peace (no strike no lockout) as well as a commitment for the supply of quality, productive skills to ensure the project is delivered on time and within budget.

I want to express sincere thanks and appreciation to the representatives of Newfoundland Transshipment and the Building Trades Council for their timeless effort in bringing about this collective agreement. We will continue to offer the services of government to those parties should it become appropriate during the construciton of this project.