HALIFAX – Nova Scotia’s premier says he’s disappointed with the amount of rhetoric and lack of negotiation ahead of a potential strike next week by 2,400 Halifax-area nurses.
Stephen McNeil made the comment in response to a threat by the Nova Scotia Government and General Employees Union that its membership would go on strike illegally if the government tables essential-service legislation ahead of the April 3 strike deadline.
McNeil wouldn’t say when the legislation would be introduced, but says he would hold off ahead of the April 3 strike date if there are signs of real progress at the negotiating table.
However, mediated talks between the union and the Capital District Health Authority reached an impasse on Sunday.
McNeil urged both sides to resume talks, saying he wants a negotiated settlement.
He also ruled out binding arbitration as a possible solution, saying it would be unacceptable for a third party to determine what the province is able to pay.
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