The Union of Northern Workers called the NWT Power Corporation “disconnected from reality” as collective bargaining broke down with no dates scheduled for the two sides to talk again.
The last collective agreement for NTPC workers expired at the end of 2022, although its terms remain in force until a new deal is reached.
Bargaining began in November 2023. Three days of negotiations at the end of April and start of May represented the two sides’ third set of meetings to date.
The union left those negotiations telling members “the parties are too far apart to reach an agreement” and mediation in September may be the next step.
“Negotiations this week resulted in long delays between meetings without any significant movement from the employer. NTPC has tabled numerous restrictive and unrealistic concessions/rollbacks, including an insulting wage proposal,” the union stated in an update to members.
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“We believe several of their proposals would be detrimental to the current and future workforce and have attempted to explain to the employer how their out-of-touch proposals would impact the bargaining unit.
“Thus far, we made as much movement as we can, while the employer has done little to acknowledge our proposals, counter-offers and concerns.”
In an update of its own to employees – a modified copy of which was provided to Cabin Radio – the power corporation said it had been “pleased” with progress made during November and February bargaining sessions, but alleged the union had “left the bargaining table at our May negotiations.”
“At this point, NTPC is hopeful that the union will come back to the bargaining table. Ultimately, NTPC’s proposals put more money in employees’ pockets, not less,” the power corporation stated in its update.
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“These proposals are geared toward ensuring a sustainable workforce, ensuring more support for employees in remote communities, filling trades positions and recognizing the contribution of longer-term employees.
“NTPC remains optimistic that the union will be willing to engage with NTPC on these proposals when the parties come together next.”
The union said it was “looking at all options.” The power corporation said no further bargaining dates have so far been scheduled.
