Lorne Clarke Appointed to Mediate EMC Labour Dispute

Lorne Clarke, former chief justice of the Nova Scotia Supreme Court, has agreed to act as the mediator or arbitrator in the labor dispute between paramedics and their employer. The announcement was made today by Labour Minister Ron Russell.

Peter Darby, chair of the Labour Relations Board of Nova Scotia, made the appointment after both parties requested Mr. Clarke's services in an effort to bring about a fair and equitable settlement.

"As the minister for the labour regulatory body, I applaud their choice and the work of Mr. Darby in securing the services of this distinguished Nova Scotian," said Mr. Russell.

The paramedics are members of the Nova Scotia Government Employees' Union. Their employer is Emergency Medical Care Inc.

Under the conditions set out in Bill 9, Mr. Clarke will endeavor to mediate or arbitrate a settlement before Dec. 20, 1999. Should an agreement not be forthcoming by that date, Mr. Clarke may ask the minister for a continuance.

Mr. Clarke is currently out-of-province and will return next week. At that time, he will contact both parties to make arrangements to begin the process.