Northwood strike could start in 8 days

Talks have broken down between the union representing 420 home support workers in Halifax and the management of Northwood.

The Nova Scotia Government and General Employees Union says its bargaining committee returned to the table Thursday with the employer, but was unable to reach its key demand, which is parity with those doing the same work in hospitals.

NSGEU president Joan Jessome says an emergency meeting will be held Sunday with the members of Local 34.

The workers will be legally able to strike as of midnight Feb. 28.

The workers contract expired on March 31, 2012.

The union says the Halifax home support local is one of 14 across the province that have voted for conciliation during this round of contract negotiations.