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Percy Barrett, Opposition Labour Critic and MHA for the District of
Bellevue, is asking the Department of Labour to get involved to help settle
a labour dispute involving elevator workers in the province. "This strike
has been ongoing since February and everyone involved in the dispute wants
to see a resolution," said Mr. Barrett. "There are only a small number of
workers involved in this strike, but it is causing major problems at a
number of locations.
"While the labour dispute only involves eight workers in this province,
these individuals are responsible for installing and repairing elevators
throughout Newfoundland and Labrador. As a result, this dispute is causing
major inconveniences and problems for many people, particularly those with
disabilities and business owners trying to install or repair their elevator
service.
"It has been reported in the media that several businesses are
experiencing problems. Cambridge Estates, a 75-room personal-care home, has
expressed concerns as their residents are having difficulty accessing the
second floor of this building. Also, the new Super 8, Marriott, and Delta
hotel projects in St. John’s are awaiting the installation of new elevators.
"To date, there has been no visible intervention by government in this
dispute. If government has not offered any assistance, I encourage Minister
Burke to take a more active role. Now is the time to find a solution to this
dispute and a mediator should be put in place to help in whatever manner
possible."
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