DEVCO

We are pleased that the union membership has accepted the offer made by Devco on January 13. This will now allow us to move forward and begin working together toward sustainable economic growth in Cape Breton.

Devco's unions requested a Joint Planning Committee (JPC) under the Canada Labour Code and Devco agreed to this process.

The JPC will be established only after the following conditions are met:

• coal is moving to Nova Scotia Power Corporation;
• the occupation of the Prince mine has ended;
• and the pickets have been taken down.

The JPC process will allow Devco and its unions to attempt to settle issues related to the closure of the Phalen mine.

Under the Canada Labour Code, the JPC could provide the parties with access to independent third-party arbitration.

In January 1999, the Government announced the privatization of Devco's operations, the closure of the Phalen mine and $111-million for a human resources support package.

The Government is committed to the transfer of the Prince mine and other Devco assets to a strong private sector operator and to maintaining the maximum number of jobs possible.

A $68-million fund was also created to promote sustainable economic development on the island. The Province of Nova Scotia has increased this amount by $12 million.

From the outset of this challenging restructuring process, the Government has been sensitive to the needs and concerns of Cape Bretoners.

And just as the Government of Canada has supported Devco for over 30 years, we are committed to helping the communities and affected workers make the transition.