Sydney Selvon
Northern News Services

Yellowknife (Jan 18/06) - Two unions called for a "strong" strike vote, yesterday, for BHP Billiton's Ekati Mine near Lac de Gras, 300 km northeast of Yellowknife. The vote is scheduled from Jan. 26 to Feb. 10.

The unions are the Public Service Alliance of Canada and the Union of Northern Workers. They want the vote by the mine workers prior to mediation by a federal officer scheduled for next month.

Calls by Yellowknifer to BHP Billiton late Tuesday evening for the employer's reaction to and comments on the union decision were not answered.

At the core of the conflict are "negotiations on wages, seniority and job security," said Union of Northern Workers president Todd Parsons.

"The PSAC/UNW represent approximately 450 workers at this mine and have been strenuously bargaining since early last year to reach an agreement," states a release by the unions.

Less Buss, PSAC regional co-ordinator, said the vote is intended to send a message to the mediator "that our members mean business and they support their bargaining team."

Union leaders will meet workers at the mine and at its regional offices in Edmonton and Yellowknife.

The Ekati Mine is Canada's first surface and underground diamond mine. There are now three diamond mines. The other two are owned by Diavik and De Beers.

The Ekati Mine is 80 per cent owned by BHP Billiton which states on its website that it offers "world class facilities" to its workers. The mine operates 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.