Union calls on N.L. government to help resolve strike at Labatt

ST. JOHN’S, N.L.—Newfoundland and Labrador’s largest union is urging the province to call in a mediator to help resolve a seven-month strike by workers at the Labatt brewery in St. John’s.

The 45 workers got a boost on the picket line this week when they were joined by hundreds of delegates from the Newfoundland and Labrador Association of Public and Private Employees, which was holding a convention in the city.

The workers at Labatt, who are also members of the National Union of Public and General Employees, have been off the job since April.

The company’s last offer in July was rejected and there have been no talks since.

Labatt has been using replacement workers to keep the plant operational.

Company spokesperson Wade Keller says sales are up slightly since the strike began and efficiency of the plant has improved.

He says there are no plans to return to the bargaining table.