OTTAWA, ONTARIO, August 12, 2004 -- This evening, Parks Canada expressed disappointment that the Public Service Alliance of Canada (PSAC) has rejected the employer's improved offer for its 4,800 unionized workers. "Parks Canada is deeply disappointed with the results of the negotiation sessions. We came to the table hoping that the union would adopt a more reasonable position," said Gaby Fortin, Director General, Western and Northern Canada. "In an effort to ensure that Canadians can continue to experience our parks and sites, Parks Canada tabled a substantially improved offer. The union needs to understand that there are limits to what is possible ¿ and raises approaching 23% over three years are simply not possible." "Our latest offer, if accepted, would result in Parks Canada salaries for staff such as labourers, gate attendants and campground attendants being, on average, 13% higher than those of comparable positions in provincial government park organizations and we think it meets the test of being fair and reasonable. Highlights of the enhanced Parks Canada offer include cumulative increases over 3 years of nearly: - 11% for 2,200 canal workers and general labourers; - 11% for gate and campground attendants; - 11% for financial, engineering and computer staff; - 7% for park wardens, technical, administration and support staff; and - a new shift premium of $2 per hour for shift work after 6PM. "Parks Canada sincerely regrets the potential impact that the union's decision will have on our employees, the traveling public and our tourism industry partners," Mr. Fortin added. "We continue to hope that the union will let employees vote on our improved offer." Parks Canada has expanded its public information capabilities to ensure that Canadians have access to daily visitor status reports regarding the local impacts of potential work stoppages. Updates are available by dialing 1-888-773-8888 or by visiting the Parks Canada web site at www.pc.gc.ca. As part of strike contingency plans, Parks Canada has designated essential staff to remain on the job to ensure public safety and security. The Agency has also previously announced that, in locations where the level of service is significantly reduced as a result of strike activity, normal admission fees will be waived. - 30 - Information: Gaby Fortin Director General, Western and Northern Canada Parks Canada (403) 292-4540 Carol Sheedy Director General Eastern Canada Parks Canada (902) 426-5871
