Well, it is difficult to sort of quantify the overall impact of pay equity on the fiscal framework of the government. I did say in the speech, and I will say again, that we want to genuinely negotiate an arrangement. This Finance Minister, if I can take some credit, has decided to put it on the table. I challenge the parties to come to the table and try to reach an accommodation that will satisfy the staff and those members of the opposite gender, try to satisfy them, that we come to some arrangement where there is an affordable settlement. I mean, there are all kinds of numbers that have been thrown out there, and I really do not want to add to or inflame an already difficult negotiation. I just hope that the organized labour, the UNW, recognizes that I am serious in my desire to negotiate a deal and understand, and I am sure they do, the fiscal realities that we are still facing even though we have balanced the budget. I hope, and I am optimistic that we can come to an arrangement by the end of March, and as it gets closer to what we think may be an appropriate settlement, and I am not trying to avoid the issue, then I would be prepared then to say this is how I think it will impact on our both short and long term fiscal condition. But I could tell you that if it is not affordable and I said it clearly, I do not want anybody to be under any other illusion, there is no ability right now to pay any large settlement on pay equity. Simply none. If there was, it might be different, but there is not. It will mean job loss and it will mean program reductions. I am not prepared to move forward on that. Thank you.
John Todd on Question 72-13(5): Potential Impact Of A Pay Equity Resolution
In the Legislative Assembly on January 22nd, 1998. See this statement in context.
Return To Question 72-13(5): Potential Impact Of A Pay Equity Resolution
Question 72-13(5): Potential Impact Of A Pay Equity Resolution
Item 7: Oral Questions
January 21st, 1998
Page 270
John Todd Keewatin Central
See context to find out what was said next.