Mr. Speaker, this is in response to question 134-12(3), asked by Mrs. Jeannie Marie-Jewell on November 30,1992.

Mr. Speaker, the Member from Thebacha asked me to review a potential violation of the collective agreement in the matter of the treatment coordinator position at the Trailcross facility in Fort Smith. Mrs. Marie-Jewell also asked me if the treatment coordinator position was the proper position for the employee in question.

I have been informed by my officials that this issue is the subject of three separate grievances by the Union of Northern Workers. I understand the issue revolves around a difference of opinion between the union and management over the right of management to proceed with the voluntary transfer of an employee without the involvement of the union.

The grievance procedure, Mr. Speaker, was negotiated with the union to provide a standard process for resolving this sort of problem. The grievance procedure has three levels. The first two involve an attempt on the part of the union and management to agree on a resolution of the problem. If the second level does not resolve the problem, the grievance is referred to the Minister of Personnel as the third and final level prior to arbitration.

These grievances are still being dealt with at the first two levels and I am optimistic that they will be resolved without the need for the Minister of Personnel to become involved. This time proven process has been negotiated in good faith with the union and it has been very effective in resolving disputes in the past. I will not become involved in the matter at this point, as I may be asked to rule on the case at a higher level. I would ask the Member to recognize the need for this issue to be dealt with in the normal labour management grievance forum. It would not be appropriate for me to make any judgemental comments on the issue, as it will prejudice my ability to be objective if I am called upon to deal with it at the third level of the grievance process. Thank you.