Officials says blood stocks remain adequate for the moment.
Michael Hyduk, a spokesman for the agency, says contingency plans exist to look after the needs of hospitals, despite fears from some doctors. Dr. Brock Wright, chief medical officer of the Winnipeg Health Authority, said with a long weekend coming up the strike could cause problems. The employees, represented by the Manitoba Government Employees' Union, include clinic assistants, truck drivers and office workers. The focus of the walkout is a dispute over benefits. Non-union staff are making blood deliveries during the strike.