Thank you Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I have an emergency statement to make.
Mr. Speaker, the Union of Northern Workers and the government have had mediated talks for the past few months in regard to pay equity. Unfortunately, the mediator has decided to end the talks with the common consent of all parties.
Mr. Speaker, while this news is disappointing and the differences between the two parties remain substantial, I would hope that it provides an opportunity for reflection and realism as we embark on collective bargaining negotiations, scheduled from February 2nd through February 6th. In these negotiations, a wide variety of issues will be addressed, including pay equity, both from a retroactive and a prospective approach with the implementation of a new job evaluation system.
Mr. Speaker, as I indicated in last week's budget speech, this government, with the help and support of our residents, has been able to achieve a balanced budget and lay the groundwork for economic progress and growth. This is a major accomplishment for which we should all be proud, but even though our future is bright, our fiscal situation is still fragile.
Mr. Speaker, this government believes firmly and unequivocally in the principle of equal pay for work of equal value. I have expressed this position on behalf of the government on many occasions. The issue of pay equity has been with us for ten years and the residents of the Northwest Territories have a reasonable expectation that we will come to a successful resolution.
In our view this can be done through negotiations. As Minister of Finance, I have continually stated our commitment to a negotiated settlement that is fair to all concerned, that is affordable and that creates for the future a new job evaluation system which is bias free.
I call upon the UNW to join with me in a common endeavour to protect jobs, ensure service levels are not further reduced and commit ourselves to respond to the concerns and needs of the people of the north. As you all are aware, we in the north live in an environment whose priorities are unique. In this context and in our choices, both government and employees must be realistic and responsible. Thank you.