Unionized GNWT workers will not strike Monday, as both sides agree to be bound by a mediator’s recommendation.
Two days of mediation between the Government of the Northwest Territories and the union failed to get both sides to craft a tentative agreement. However, they have agreed to be bound by the recommendations of veteran mediator Vince Ready.
“As a condition of agreeing to be bound by Mr. Ready’s recommendations, there will be no strike by the 4,000 members of the Union of Northern Workers at the GNWT,” a government press release states.
No information was provided about Northwest Territories Power Corporation workers, who were also put on strike action notice starting Monday.
Ready says both parties made “considerable progress.” Issues remain, including economic increases, job security and the terms of the agreement.
Ready says he plans to put out a report with binding recommendations within 30 days.
Until then, a media blackout will be imposed which means no reporting on the recommendations can happen in this time as neither side can speak with the media about their concerns.
