Notice of Lockout, Region of Queens Municipality

January 9, 2025, Liverpool, NS: On December 20, 2024, the Region of Queens Municipality (“RQM”) filed a notice of intended lockout action against IBEW, Local 1928, following the union’s Notice to Strike on December 20, 2024. On December 23, 2024, Cynthia Yazbek, Senior Executive Director, Labour Services Branch, acknowledged receipt of RQM’s notice on behalf of the Honourable Nolan Young at 8:30 a.m.

At 7:30 a.m. Thursday, January 9, 2025, RQM became aware of IBEW Local 1928 strike action when union members set up picket lines at or near municipal buildings. In response to strike action, RQM gave notice to members of IBEW, Local 1928, that the lockout is effective immediately today, Thursday, January 9, 2025 at 8:00 a.m.

What is Lockout?

At Lockout all pay to striking workers and access to workspaces for striking employees ceases immediately. IBEW, Local 1928 confirmed that it will reimburse RQM for employer and employee benefit premiums and therefore benefits will continue for striking employees without interruption.

Will garbage collection and other services continue?

Yes. All municipal services will continue as normal operations. The Solid Waste Facility, garbage collection, utility and tax bill payment, snow plowing, and every other municipal service will continue.

What should I do if the entrance to RQM’s buildings/properties is blocked by picketers?

Members of the public should not be stopped from entering municipal buildings. However, if residents are stopped by people on the picket line, please notify RQM immediately by calling Municipal Administration at 902-354-3453.  

The municipality will continue to serve the public and all municipal operations will continue.