Media Release

AUPE and Government of Alberta launch enhanced mediation process with intent to conclude collective bargaining

EDMONTON—The Alberta Union of Provincial Employees (AUPE) and the Government of Alberta have agreed to enter into an enhanced mediation process in an effort to resolve outstanding issues in the current round of collective bargaining for more than 23,000 front-line government services workers.  

“This step forward is the result of direct involvement from Finance Minister Nate Horner, and I want to thank him for recognizing the urgency and importance of moving these negotiations forward,” says AUPE President Guy Smith. “While challenges remain, this process gives both parties the opportunity to focus squarely on the core issues—fair pay that helps members keep up with the ever-increasing cost of living, and safe, respectful working conditions—with the clear goal of reaching a settlement.”

Respected mediator Mr. Lyle Kanee has been approached to lead this critical process. Smith and Minister Horner both expressed their confidence and trust in Mr. Kanee’s experience. Mr. Kanee will be joined by one representative appointed by each party to form the enhanced mediation panel. The enhanced mediation panel has until August 29 to assist the parties in reaching an agreement or to recommend terms for settlement.

“We are fully committed to this process,” says Smith. “After 18 months at the bargaining table, this mediation process represents what we believe to be the final opportunity to reach a fair deal. But we are under no illusions—this moment requires urgency, good faith, and real progress.

“If a fair agreement is reached, or if the mediation panel recommends terms for settlement that we support, we will hold a ratification vote in the first few days of September.”

AUPE’s bargaining team will be available throughout August to participate fully in the mediation process.

“Our goal is clear and supported by our members: a fair agreement that addresses the real concerns of the front-line workers who carry this province on their shoulders every day,” says Smith. “We are prepared to work around the clock to get there.”

Both parties have also agreed to not publicly share their respective bargaining positions to maintain respectful and productive discussions and in order to protect the integrity and accountability of the enhanced mediation process. Therefore, no further comments will be made at this time.

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Tamara Aschenbrenner, Communications Officer
t.aschenbrenner@aupe.org

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