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Percy Barrett, Opposition Labour Critic and MHA for the District of
Bellevue, is renewing his call for the Department of Labour to get involved
and provide mediation help in settling a labour dispute involving elevator
workers in the province. "This strike has been ongoing for a year and it
appears there is still no end in sight," said Mr. Barrett. "This strike is
causing major problems for owners and residents of new buildings requiring
the installation of elevators in the province. I asked the former minister
to provide assistance in this labour dispute but got no response. I am today
asking the current minister to recognize the problems being created and
offer the services of the Department of Labour."
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.
"Several businesses are still experiencing major problems as a result of
this strike. New personal care homes and new hotels have been struggling
with the absence of elevator services. Elevators are not a luxury for many
people, they are a necessity. There has still been no visible offer of
assistance by government in helping to end this dispute. If government has
not offered any assistance, I encourage Minister Shelley to re-evaluate what
action could be taken by the Department of Labour and volunteer that help as
soon as possible."
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