Dear Brothers and Sisters:

In light of today's announcement regarding the proposed purchase of NB Power by Hydro Quebec, I would like to share with you my initial thoughts and reaction. Without a doubt I'd like to keep the situation at status quo, however we must look at the reality of what may be in front of us and determine how to face that reality together. As always, I give you IBEW's firm commitment to ensuring that the interests of our members at NB Power will continue to be protected.

You are all, by now, familiar with the key concerns this union has surrounding any type of deal that involves the sale of NB Power - namely the continuation of employment for current employees, pensions and benefits, the continuation of collective agreements and maintaining IBEW as the bargaining agent for our members at NB Power. I am pleased with the fact that we have received, a written response to a letter I wrote to Premier Shawn Graham. The letter from the Premier promises that there are assurances in place for each of our specific concerns (below are links to both letters. In addition, IBEW will have the opportunity to provide input on any issues that may have potential impacts on our membership. It's also encouraging to know that we will continue to work with the same management teams that are in place today and that IBEW Local 37 will remain in a position to use the same tools and principles that have made us successful in representing our members.

Now, all of this being said, we are very mindful of the fact that the devil is often in the details. This means that we will proceed with caution as this proposed deal continues to unfold. Make no mistake; we will be on guard to ensure that what our members have been promised today will be honoured tomorrow.

Please know that IBEW takes this announcement very seriously and sincerely recognizes that our brothers and sisters in Dalhousie have received some incredibly distressing and disheartening news today. My immediate concern is for these workers, their families and the community of Dalhousie. Our mandate is very clear on this one - provide the support and guidance that is necessary to help minimize the impact of phasing out the Dalhousie Generating Station under this proposed agreement.

I realize there is a lot of information to process and that there are still many unanswered questions. I will do my very best to keep you informed as new information becomes available. It's my hope that each of you will maintain your commitment to excellence on the job and keep work safety a number one priority.

Fraternally,

Ross Galbraith,

Business Manager