New Brunswick Premier Blaine Higgs (Submitted/Government of New Brunswick)
New Brunswick’s premier says changes are coming to the controversial bill on essential services in nursing homes.
The bill, which was introduced in November, allows for binding arbitration with a “limited” number of conditions.
Premier Blaine Higgs said the changes will be around those conditions an arbitrator must consider when trying to resolve a labour dispute.
“It just looks at additional factors that would be considered or relevant information,” Higgs told reporters Friday.
One of the conditions, which involves the province’s ability to pay, has drawn criticism from opposition parties and unions.
But Higgs said the amendment will not be “a material change” and will not remove the controversial condition.
“Anything to water it down, to not address the issues that are very relevant in any sort of arbitration hearing in order for it to be fair and equitable for the taxpayers of this province, it will not be something that can be accepted by myself,” he said.
The existing law on essential services in nursing homes was found unconstitutional by a labour board.
A judge upheld the ruling after a lengthy court battle and gave the province until Jan. 2 to fix it.
Higgs said he is hopeful the amendment will allow the bill to overcome objections by the People’s Alliance.
“[The bill] is important, as I’ve said,” he said. “We will stay in the legislature whatever time is necessary because this is the difference between whether our seniors will have care in the new year or whether that care will be in jeopardy. It is critical.”
Higgs has said he will make the decision a confidence vote, meaning the government will fall if it is rejected.
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