NAPE Union leader Jerry Earle is accusing the provincial government of “pitting worker against worker” in offering labour market adjustments to recruit workers to the Department of Transportation.

That’s causing tension in the workplace, with many already employed with the government knowing that those recently hired could be making more than they are.

Labour market adjustments were necessary to recruit snowplow operators and mechanics after government announced its plans to expand 24-hour snow clearing.

Workers already in the department have expressed their frustration on VOCM Open Line, and NAPE President Jerry Earle understands why.

He says the union knew that using an “outdated policy” would “pit worker against worker.” He says some depots only have a handful of employees working side-by-side, all of whom are skilled tradespeople.