Province files request to intervene in Marine Atlantic hearing
The province has filed a request to intervene in a hearing on the designation of Marine Atlantic as an essential service.
In a statement this morning, government says it “respects the collective bargaining process underway between Marine Atlantic and Unifor, but is concerned the corporation’s longstanding designation as an essential service could be reconsidered by the Canada Industrial Relations Board (CIRB).”
If accepted, this would fundamentally shift how essential services are defined for Marine Atlantic and affect long-term service reliability.
Marine Atlantic’s ferry service is a vital link for transporting food, fuel and medical supplies, and for supporting health care, supply chains and public safety in Newfoundland and Labrador. The provincial says it is focused on ensuring critical services remain in place to protect the health, safety and well-being of residents.
“Maintaining Marine Atlantic’s essential service status protects the public interest. We support a resolution that respects collective bargaining while ensuring uninterrupted service for residents and businesses,” says Premier Tony Wakeham. “Marine Atlantic provides a service that is constitutionally guaranteed under the Terms of Union. The ferry service functions in a manner equivalent to the Trans-Canada Highway, and Marine Atlantic’s essential role means disruptions cannot compromise public safety and well-being.”
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