OTTAWA, ONTARIO, September 3, 2010 - The Canada Industrial Relations Board (CIRB) has ruled that the distribution of certain goods to Newfoundland and Labrador, through the Port of Montreal should be maintained in the event of a work stoppage in the port. Canada's Minister of Labour, the Honourable Lisa Raitt, referred the matter to the CIRB in response to concerns raised regarding the continued supply of goods to the province during the Port of Montreal lock-out in July 2010.
"Our Government took immediate action to assist those who were most vulnerable in Newfoundland and Labrador as a result of the lockout," said Minister Raitt. "This decision will help ensure that the health and safety of the citizens of this province will not be jeopardized in the future."
Under the Canada Labour Code, the CIRB, upon referral by the Minister of Labour during a labour dispute, may issue binding orders with respect to the maintenance of activities to ensure that a work stoppage does not threaten public safety or health. The CIRB has scheduled a further hearing on September 17, 2010 to determine the level of service to be deemed essential.
The CIRB is an independent, representational, quasi-judicial tribunal. Its mandate is to interpret and apply the provisions of Part I of the Canada Labour Code dealing with collective bargaining and unfair labour practices.
For more information on the Board, please visit www.cirb-ccri.gc.ca.
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This news release is available in alternative formats upon request.
For further information (media only):
Jocelyne Turner
Press Secretary
Office of Minister Raitt
819-953-5646
Media Relations Office
Human Resources and Skills Development Canada
819-994-5559
