September 13, 2016
Government Moves to Create Single Source for Delivery of Highway Infrastructure
– – –Province to Submit Cost-Sharing Proposal to Federal Government: Pedersen
Following the May 2016 announcement by the Manitoba government the East Side Road Authority (ESRA) would be dissolved and its responsibility for constructing and maintaining roads on the east side of Lake Winnipeg would be transferred to Manitoba Infrastructure, Infrastructure Minister Blaine Pedersen today announced the transition plan for ESRA staff, many of whom will be provided the opportunity to seek employment opportunities within the department in the coming weeks.
“Our government has taken steps to reduce duplication and pursue a single source for the delivery of highway infrastructure in Manitoba,” said Pedersen. “We are determined to minimize the impact of this transition on employees by ensuring maximum employment opportunities for those affected. We will conduct both direct offer and competitive processes for ESRA staff to continue to have the opportunity to compete for open job opportunities.”
The East Side Road Authority is required to provide formal notice of termination of all employees effective Nov. 25, pursuant to the provisions of section 67(1) of the Employment Standards Code. The minister advised ESRA staff are today receiving termination notices effective Nov. 25. He added it is the intention of Manitoba Infrastructure to provide employees with continued employment for the notice period of 10 weeks.
“In the coming weeks our government will submit proposals to the federal government for cost-sharing of strategic infrastructure projects on the east side of Lake Winnipeg,” said Pedersen. “Whereas the previous government made infrastructure decisions based on political motivation, we will select projects in line with Manitoba Infrastructure’s commitment to ensuring value for money and return on investment.”
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