Minister Raitt commends inaugural agreement between Potlotek First Nation and United Food and Commercial Workers Canada

OTTAWA, May 13, 2013 /CNW/ - Today, the Honourable Lisa Raitt, Canada's Labour Minister, congratulated the Potlotek First Nation and the United Food and Commercial Workers Canada Union on ratifying their first collective agreement for deckhands and fishers in Nova Scotia.

"I am pleased that the Potlotek First Nation and the union have successfully negotiated an agreement and established a positive relationship," said Minister Raitt. "Strong labour-management relations benefit the economic prosperity and security of Canadians."

The Potlotek First Nation operates two fishing vessels for lobster fishing in Glace Bay and snow crab fishing in Arichat. The United Food and Commercial Workers Canada Union Local 864 was certified by the Canada Industrial Relations Board on July 5, 2012, to represent approximately 24 deckhands and fishers.

The agreement was reached with assistance from the Labour Program's Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service. The Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service provides dispute resolution and prevention assistance to trade unions and employers under the jurisdiction of the Canada Labour Code.

This news release is available in alternative formats upon request.

SOURCE: Human Resources and Skills Development Canada

(media only):

Ashley Kelahear
Press Secretary
Office of Minister Raitt
819-953-5646

Media Relations Office
Human Resources and Skills Development Canada
819-994-5559
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