The first conciliation meeting between AEA/GSU Local 8 and the employer will take place on Jan. 25. A provincially appointed conciliator will meet with both sides in an effort to assist resolving the current bargaining impasse.

The bargaining impasse is centred on wage increases, severance pay for job loss, modest paid leave to assist seriously ill family members and paid sick leave to cover the waiting period for short term disability benefits.

If the impasse is not resolved on Jan. 25, further meetings with the conciliator are scheduled for Feb. 4 and 5.