NLIS 4
November 28, 2003
(Works, Services and Transportation)
(Tourism, Culture and Recreation)

 

Ministers pleased with ruling, commit to further work

Works, Services and Transportation Minister Tom Rideout and Tourism, Culture and Recreation Minister Paul Shelley are pleased with the November 27 decision by the Canada Industrial Relations Board (CIRB), ordering that there be "no reduction in the level of Marine Atlantic Inc.�s regular ferry service between Newfoundland and Nova Scotia at any time in the year."

"This ruling is a very positive step towards ensuring that this vital service is properly managed for the people of the province," said Minister Rideout. "It recognizes that the ferry service is the �sole actually accessible link� for the trucking industry and its customers, as well as for the majority of the traveling public. The gulf ferry is the only realistic option for many of our imports and exports, as continuity of service is extremely important for the province�s consumers and vital for businesses that depend upon that service."

Minister Shelley noted that "The CIRB decision provides both tourists and tourism operators with a great level of confidence. Disruptions can strand passengers, interrupt holidays and negatively impact operators� business. Disruptions, or fear of disruptions, have hurt our province�s tourism industry in the past, so this decision bodes very well for our tourism industry."

Minister Rideout noted that the ruling does not resolve all issues nor does it offer a permanent solution to potential disruptions of service; however, the province is pleased with the direction of the CIRB.

"Premier Williams wrote to the Prime Minister on November 21, reassuring him that the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is eager to work with the Government of Canada to achieve a permanent solution," said Minister Rideout. "We are interested in a solution that recognizes the concerns of Marine Atlantic employees while addressing concerns about potential labour disputes that could severely limit access between this province and the rest of the country. We believe that this ruling is a positive step towards achieving these goals."

Media contact: Deirdre Robinson Greene, Communications, (709) 729-0084

2003 11 28                                          4:40 p.m.


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