QEC and GN clarify misinformation by the NEU

News Release

For Immediate Release

QEC and GN clarify misinformation by the NEU

IQALUIT, Nunavut (July 22, 2015) – The Qulliq Energy Corporation (QEC) and the Government of Nunavut (GN) are clarifying misinformation the Nunavut Employees Union’s (NEU) is providing to their members and the public.

The cost of living increase in Nunavut is averaging about 1 per cent each year. QEC is offering a six per cent wage increase over four years (2 – 1 – 1 – 2).

The average wage increase for contracts ratified in 2013 was only 1.4 per cent, the lowest average since 1997. Additionally, more than 25 per cent of Canadian employees covered by agreements negotiated in 2013 received no wage increase. In comparison, QEC is offering a six per cent salary increase over four years, with no benefit decrease.

Reports that Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) recently gave themselves a three per cent raise are inaccurate. Under the Legislative Assembly and Executive Council Act, MLAs’ salary increases are tied to NEU increases. From 2011 to 2013, MLAs and other GN employees received a 6.5 per cent increase to their salaries, including the three per cent in 2013. During the same time period, QEC employees also received a 6.5 per cent increase to their salaries.

During the course of the strike, QEC will continue to provide services to customers, and are prepared to deal with emergencies and disruptions to power as they arise. QEC remains open and willing to meet with the union in an effort to resolve this dispute.

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Media Contacts:Natalie Chafe-YuanDirector of Corporate AffairsQulliq Energy Corporation867-979-7532@email

Jo-Anne FalkinerDirector, Corporate PolicyDepartment of Finance976-975-5831@email