Nova Scotia’s only power company announced Thursday that it could shed up to 250 jobs in various parts of the province, in an effort to save money.
Linesmen, meter readers and maintenance jobs could all be affected if Nova Scotia Power turns to outsourcing.
“Members are shocked. They’re trying to focus on their work to be safe. Nobody knows when the next layoff is coming,” says Jeff Richardson of IBEW Local 1928. “At one time, you worked at Nova Scotia Power for security. It was a good company to work for, which it still is, but the ground is changing underneath their feet.
Layoffs have been a concern at the company over the past few months, with 22 union positions cut since May, including eight this week.
Nova Scotia Power is in the middle of a two year plan to reduce costs, an agreement made last year with the Utility and Review Board.
“We’re mandated to deliver safe cost effective service, so we’re constantly looking for ways to ensure that we do achieve that mandate,” says Nova Scotia Power President and CEO Bob Hanf.
A mandate Premier-Designate Stephen McNeil believes can be achieved by the company taking a closer look at the administration side.
“Whether there is a few less administrators in that company won’t really matter to Nova Scotians, but it will matter if the linesmen aren’t there to deliver, to put the power back on, or the vegetation management is not being done properly,” says McNeil.
Nova Scotia consumer advocate John Merrick says he’s encouraged to see Nova Scotia Power take steps to reduce costs, but adds outsourcing must be scrutinized to ensure it remains economical.
“We do not compromise on safety and we’re very clear on the service standards that must be met and we would not compromise those in any event,” says Hanf.
A final decision about the jobs is expected in January.
With files from CTV Atlantic's Gena Holley
