NB 1240
Oct. 10, 2006
FREDERICTON (CNB) - A new five-year collective agreement was officially signed today between Local 1190 of the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) and the provincial government, Human Resources Minister Hédard Albert announced today.
"We want to commend the employees for their patience and continued professionalism during the lengthy bargaining process," Albert said. "The bargaining teams should be proud of the agreement that was reached. It contains improvements for both the hardworking members of CUPE 1190 and the employing departments."
The agreement covers about 1,780 employees in 10 departments, including Transportation, Natural Resources, and Tourism and Parks. About 80 per cent are employed in Transportation in positions such as equipment operator, bridge and construction worker, and mechanic.
"I am extremely pleased that we have the opportunity to sign this agreement today," Transportation Minister Denis Landry said. "These dedicated employees work hard and provide services that are essential to the safety of New Brunswick drivers."
The agreement, which is retroactive to Dec. 16, 2003, includes general economic increases of 12.5 per cent for the length of the contract plus additional adjustments totaling 2.5 per cent.
"I want to take this opportunity to congratulate both parties for their efforts in working to achieve a new agreement," Finance Minister Victor Boudreau said. "The hard work of the bargaining teams in achieving this agreement without labour disruption is to be commended."
Albert said the Office of Human Resources is committed to fostering a positive labour-management climate in the province. "I am looking forward to working in collaboration with the various unions, including CUPE 1190, in the future. A good relationship between labour and management, both at the bargaining table and during the life of a collective agreement, is essential in reaching our economic and social goals as a province."
06/10/10
MEDIA CONTACT: Christina Winsor, communications, Office of Human Resources, 506-453-8014.
06/10/10
