1 severance payment equals 54 libraries: CUPE ads do math on Ed Martin package

The union representing library workers in Newfoundland and Labrador islaunchinga TV ad campaign comparing the cost of keeping libraries open to the cost of severing ties withformer NalcorCEOEd Martin.

"The $1.4 million in severance was more money than the actual savings from the library closures. How can this be happening in this day and age," asked Wayne Lucas, president of the Canadian Union of Public Employees in Newfoundland and Labrador.

"The average cost of keeping one of those 54 libraries open is $18,500," saidCUPELocal 2329 president DawnLaheyin a news release Friday.

"Doesn't Education Minister Dale Kirby think the people of Fogo Island or the dozens of other communities who are losing their libraries are worth $18,500 a year?"

$50K spent on ad campaign

The government decided to close 54 libraries in its cost cutting 2016 budget, saving $1 million.

The governing Liberals have also said their hands were tied by a contract that the previous Tory goverment negotiated with Martin when he was hired from the oil sector to run Nalcor more than a decade ago.

Lucas said the union will spend $50,000 on the ad campaign, and also plans to pressure MHAs by writing letters, calling open line showsand holding demonstrations.

"It's a serious push. We believe the decision can be reversed," he told CBC Friday.

CUPErepresents about 6,000 public servants in the province, including250 library workers.

The TV ads will start airing on Monday.