Federated Co-op says they do not believe binding arbitration is a good way forward in the labour dispute between FCL and Unifor local 594.

FCL says despite the national union’s insistence on binding arbitration, the only way a deal that works for both sides can get done is at the table.

CEO Scott Banda says in a news release that FCL has to live with the deal after Unifor executives leave Saskatchewan, so setting arbitrary deadlines and requesting binding arbitration does not help get a deal done.

However, FCL says they are still committed to bargaining as soon as Unifor abides by court injunctions in Saskatchewan and Alberta by removing blockades around Co-op facilities.

Regina Police remaining at Co-op Refinery until further notice

Meanwhile, Regina Police are continuing to limit vehicle traffic on 9th Avenue north near the Co-op refinery.

Police will be stopping vehicles, and only allowing those with business at the refinery through. Unifor picketers will be able to walk onto the grounds with signs, flags and other information material on the labour dispute.

In a statement, police say this will likely be continued until a decision in Friday’s court application is made, as Co-op is seeking fines of up to $100,000 per day the blockades were up, and jail time for Unifor members, including 594 President Kevin Bittman.