Ottawa, Ontario, March 31, 2012—Yesterday, the Honourable Lisa Raitt, Canada’s Labour Minister, referred matters related to the maintenance of activities at CityWest Telephone Corporation, located in Prince Rupert, to the Canada Industrial Relations Board (CIRB).
“CityWest Telephone Corporation and Local Union 337 of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers have been unable to reach a collective agreement and I am concerned that a work stoppage could affect the safety and health of the public,” said Minister Raitt. “As provided in the Canada Labour Code, I am referring these matters to the CIRB to ensure appropriate services to Canadians are maintained in the event of a work stoppage.”
Section 87.4 of the Canada Labour Code provides that, in the event of a work stoppage, the parties must maintain the supply of services, operation of facilities or production of goods to the extent necessary to prevent an immediate and serious danger to the safety and health of the public. Upon referral by the Minister of Labour, the CIRB reviews the case and independently determines if maintenance of activities is essential to ensure the health and safety of Canadians.
The Local Union 337 of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers represents 40 employees comprised of journeypersons, internet service specialists, coordinators, customer service representatives, cashiers, and cleaners whose collective agreement expired on March 31, 2011.
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 that deal with collective bargaining and unfair labour practices.
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This news release is available in alternative formats upon request.
For further information (media only):
Ashley Kelahear
Press Secretary
Office of Minister Raitt
819-953-5646
Media Relations Office
Human Resources and Skills Development Canada
819-994-5559
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