This is an archive of news stories and research from the National Union of Public and General Employees. Please see our new site - https://nupge.ca - for the most current information.
'Absolutely no change in the employer's position.'
Edmonton (18 Aug. 2009) - Because of the Alberta government's decision to intervene, any resolution of the dispute between laboratory professionals and DynaLIFE Dx has been put off until late September at the earliest.
When the provincial Conservative government stepped into the dispute by appointing a disputes inquiry board last week it thwarted a strike that was to have begun on Aug. 14 by more than 900 members of the Health Sciences Association of Alberta (HSAA/NUPGE).
The board has until Sept. 25 to present a non-binding report, including recommendations for a settlement, to Hector Goudreau, the provincial employment and immigration minister.
The most immediate effect of the intervention appeared to be the buying of yet more time for DynaLIFE Dx, a highly profitable American-controlled employer, to continue its stalling tactics at the bargaining table.
15% to 20% wage gap
DynaLIFE Dx workers, who are paid 15% to 20% less than comparable employees in Alberta, have been trying for more than a year to negotiate a first contract with the company.
The two sides met again late last week – after the board was appointed – but no progress resulted.
"There was absolutely no change in the employer's position," reports HSAA negotiator Craig Johnston.
The two sides will now present position papers to board arbitrator John Moreau. HSAA members will vote on his report after it has been presented to the province and both sides have had a chance to review its contents.
If either side rejects the report, a strike by employees or a lockout by the company would again become legal options.
"Further details surrounding the DynaLIFE Dx labour dispute will be posted at www.hsaa.ca when they become available," the union says.
NUPGE
The National Union of Public and General Employees (NUPGE) is one of Canada's largest labour organizations with over 340,000 members. Our mission is to improve the lives of working families and to build a stronger Canada by ensuring our common wealth is used for the common good. NUPGE
More information:
DynaLIFE Dx misleading public in Alberta dispute
DynaLIFE Dx lab workers to strike Aug. 14