by Jeff Colbourne
Northern News Services

NNSL (Nov 28/97) - Only a handful of supporters turned up for postal workers' high-noon demonstration Wednesday.

With temperatures dipping to a low of -25 C, the dozen or so tough enough to come out heard the posties plea for a negotiated contract instead of being legislated back to work.

They also chanted to have part-time employees turned into full-time workers.

"I think it's going to be a long struggle," said Dale Bouchard, bundled in her parka and neck warmer and shouting through a megaphone.

"By next week I believe we'll be legislated back to work," the Canadian Union of Postal Workers Local 858 president added.

Those showing support for workers at the demonstration included Pat Thomas, president of the NWT Teacher's Association, and Dave Talbot, regional vice-president of the Union of Northern Workers for the Great Slave Region.

After about 30 minutes, workers and supporters fled the post office, leaving only a couple of picketers walking the line in the cold and wind.

While workers continue to strike, old age security, Canada pension and other government cheques were being delivered through Canada Post on Wednesday.

City hall is helping its residents pay their bills during the strike. A drop box has been set up for power bills and city bills can be paid during business hours 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Power bills are being transported to the Power Corp. each day.