"We currently have thousands of people on strike in this province in several private sector companies," said Barrett. "One particular dispute has been ongoing now for close to three months with no end in sight. I would like to know what the provincial minister has done to offer the services of her department to the companies and the unions. Has she written the companies and the unions? Has she written the Federal Minister?

"The lack of action by the provincial government is indicative of what we saw during the public sector strike in April. Government has many tools at its disposal to aide both sides in public and private labour disputes. I am calling on Minister Burke today to become more involved in offering government services to these employers and employees. It is in the best interests of the companies and the public to settle labour disputes as quickly as possible to ensure a mutually beneficial agreement exists."

The Liberal MHA is disappointed with the amount of labour unrest that has existed in the province so far this year. "I feel for the families of those currently on strike as well as those who are still suffering due to the unnecessary strike of public servants caused by the Danny Williams led government. Everyone suffers when there is a strike and government has a role in establishing an environment of labour peace. Part of the problem in this case is we have a government that does not respect workers rights themselves."