NORTHERN OVERTIME EXEMPTION – SEPTEMBER MEETINGS

Consultations on the Northern Overtime Exemption are continuing into September. Public meetings are scheduled for the following times and locations:

• Uranium City - Settlement Office, Tues., Sept. 5th, 2:00 p.m.

• Stony Rapids - Waterfront Lodge, Tues., Sept. 5th, 7:00 p.m.

• Fond du Lac - Band Office/Hall, Weds., Sept. 6th, 3:00 p.m.

• La Ronge – La Ronge Motor Hotel, Mon., Sept. 11th, 7:00 p.m.

• Ile-a-la-Crosse - Entertainment Centre, Tues., Sept. 12th, 7:00 p.m.

• Meadow Lake - Elks Hall, Weds., Sept 13th, 7:00 p.m. and

• Prince Albert - Marlboro Inn, Thurs., Sept. 14th, 7:00 p.m.

The meetings are part of a comprehensive consultation process by Ron Harper, MLA for Regina Northeast, to examine the impact of the exemption. Harper began his discussions with northerners earlier this month in La Loche, Beauval and Buffalo Narrows.

"We received valuable feedback during our initial round of meetings, and I anticipate an even fuller understanding of this issue as we move through the North," Harper said.

Harper is currently holding meetings in Creighton/Denare Beach, Sandy Bay, Pelican Narrows and Pinehouse.

The Northern Overtime Exemption is a regulation that exempts employees working north of Township 62 from the hours of work and overtime provisions of The Labour Standards Regulations, 1995. The exemption does not apply to La Ronge, Creighton (and a 10 km radius surrounding each) and Uranium City.

Premier Lorne Calvert appointed Harper this spring to examine the northern overtime exemption. Harper will forward a summary of recommendations based on his consultations to Cabinet this fall.

More information is available at www.northern.gov.sk.ca or by calling toll-free 1-866-225-2835.

-30-

For More Information, Contact:

Nadine Sisk Labour Regina Phone: (306) 787-4156

Scott Boyes Northern Affairs La Ronge Phone: (306) 425-6669