SOMBA K'E/YELLOWKNIFE - Ten Yellowknife-based Union of Northern Workers (UNW) office workers, who are represented by the United Steelworkers, gave notice of their intention to strike in the wake of failed negotiations between the Steelworkers and the UNW.

The absence of a job classification for the office workers proved a major sticking point during talks.

UNW president Todd Parsons expressed his disappointment over the workers' decision.

"I'm just very disheartened that the employees, as represented by the Steelworkers, weren't prepared to return to the bargaining table in an effort to avoid this labour dispute," said Parsons.