Well known labor dispute mediator Vince Ready has been appointed by the province as a special mediator to assist in the dispute between Federated Co-op and Unifor.

Workers at the Co-op Refinery Complex have been locked out since December 5th after issuing a 48 hour strike notice.

The special mediator will begin on February 18th.

The appointment of Ready is welcome news for FCL. CEO Scott Banda says he believes Ready will help the sides work together to get a deal done.

“I believe Mr. Ready has a lot of experience, in these kind of disputes. In this particular case the issues are complex and many and it will take some time to work our way through. And we believe Mr. Ready will be very, very helpful in that process.”

Speaking this morning, President of Unifor Local 594, Kevin Bittman says he is appreciative of the move by the provincial government.

“I applaud the government’s decision for appointing the mediator. We hope that he can help us in getting a settlement. I also applaud the government’s leadership in showing that they understand the impact that this lock out has had on the Province of Saskatchewan and the City of Regina.”

If the parties are unable to reach an agreement the mediator will provide the parties and the minister with recommended terms for agreement.

The two sides have 20 days to reach a settlement. (with files from CKRM)