Talks resume Monday

The four unions representing 10,000 striking community social services workers have agreed to return to the bargaining table on Monday, May 17, 1999 in an effort to reach a contract settlement.

The unions agreed to resume bargaining at the request of mediator/facilitator Don Munroe, who advised them that he has had extensive discussions with the unions and the employers' bargaining representative over the last two weeks and believes the conditions are right for both sides to re-engage in the process of collective bargaining.

The four unions - B.C. Government and Service Employees' Union, Canadian Union of Public Employees, Hospital Employees' Union and Health Sciences Association - said tremendous pressure has been put on government ministers, MLAs and the opposition to resolve the two-month old dispute. However, the unions, though hopeful, will not know if a fair settlement is attainable until the two sides resume bargaining next week.

Community social services workers will remain on strike. Essential services are being maintained.

For more information contact:
Rebecca Maurer, Director of Communications
(604) 439-0994