LCBO Strike Averted

Both sides in the L-C-B-O dispute have agreed to stick a cork instrike plans and keep bargaining until they strike a deal.

But if either side walks away from the table, a strike that was scheduled to begin this morning would likely be back on.

An OP-SEU official says the union would not be extending the strike deadline if it didn't feel it could forge a new contractthrough negotiation.

The strike threat prompted many people to stock up on alcohol andsome empty shelves may greet customers at some stores today.

MNR Fire Update

The forest fire hazard is high to extreme across much of Northwestern Ontario.The Ministry of Natural Resources is dealing with 24-active fires, most in the Far North.

Information Officer Debbie MacLean says fortunately they have received some help.

MacLean anticipates several new starts due to lightning, warm weather and windy conditions.

OPSEU Economy Meeting in Kenora

The Ontario Public Service Employees Union says it was pleased with the response to a community forum on the local economy.

About 20 people attended yesterday's meeting at the Best Western Lakeside Inn.

James Tocker is OPSEU's vice-president for northwestern Ontario andsays he was surprised by the positive outlook from most of the peoplewho attended.

Tocker says the input they received at the meeting will be compiled into one large report, which will ultimately be presented to the provincialgovernment.

Visitor Restrictions Lifted Hospital

After a couple of weeks of being closed to the public, the Lake of the Woods DistrictHospital has opened its doors again to visitors.

Director of Patient Care, Leslie Brown says they were able to re-open the health care facility yesterday afternoon.

Brown says the limited visiting hours will take effect from 2pm to 8:30pm for the rest of this week.