REGINA — A special mediator has been called in to help resolve the conflict between the Saskatchewan Union of Nurses and the Saskatchewan Association of Health Organizations.
Richard Hornung says he is delighted with the positions put forward by both the union and SAHO and believes there's a genuine desire to achieve a resolution.
Hornung says both sides will meet in Regina on Friday.
SUN president Tracy Zambory has previously stated their biggest concern is that the employer wants to restrict a nurse's ability to call in additional staff if needed.
Hornung says he will submit his report to the Ministry of Labour Relations with recommendations, and the parties will decide if they want to accept his report or move on with the next step, which could be a strike or lockout.
Hornung has had success in resolving Saskatchewan contract issues in the past.
In 2011, he was called in to resolve a dispute between teachers and the government, which led to a tentative agreement.
The nurses have been without a contract since March 2014.
Negotiations with SAHO for a new contract began last July, but broke off earlier this month.