Government still consulting about Labour Relations Act changes

When

the government announced changes to the provincial Labour Relations Act in late June, business groups slammed several of the amendments, with the most criticism directed at the one that introduced automatic certification in instances where 65 per cent of workers signed union cards. Previously, enough signatures would trigger a vote on whether to accept certification. The St. John’s Board of Trade criticized the new rule, as did provincial construction groups, and a national restaurant association also weighed in unfavourably.

But Keith Hutchings, innovation, trade and rural development minister, told me this week that it isn’t true the government didn’t consult business groups.

“Through our strategic business partnership, there would be a subcommittee that would be reflective of various stakeholders, both labour and on the business side of things, so there would have been consultation,” he said at the Startup Canada barbecue in Bowring Park on Tuesday.

Labour groups have applauded the move, but things could change.

“We’re very open to consultation and if there’s various groups out there, stakeholders, that have issues or concerns or would like to bring ideas and thoughts forward, we’re open,” he said.

“I’ve spoken to people in the business community on this issue, and we’ll see where it proceeds

from here.”

••• New restaurants opened in Atlantic Place this week: Korean restaurant Kimchi & Sushi and Chinese food option Chew Restaurant both started serving food. There’s still an empty spot at the end of the counter, recently vacated by Fog City Diner. Elsewhere, Aqua chef Mark McCrowe is opening a second restaurant in St. John’s in September, to be called Club, says food critic Karl Wells.

••• Treasury Board president and Federal Economic Initiative Minister Tony Clement is addressing the St. John’s Board of Trade at its Aug. 16 luncheon.

••• Gander’s EVAS Air has added a sixth Beech 1900D aircraft to its operations, bringing its total fleet up to seven planes. EVAS provides passenger service in the province for Air Canada, as well as corporate charter, air courier and Medevac services. The company says the new aircraft will be used primarily for its corporate charter business.