Darrell Dexter became the first Nova Scotia premier to participate in the annual Labour Day rally in Halifax.

But the New Democrat also had words of caution for organized labour.

Nowhere are expectations higher for Dexter than within the organized labour movement.

In opposition, Dexter and the NDP championed labour's cause.

On Monday, as premier, Dexter was given a place of honour in the annual Labour Day rally.

Dexter led a parade around the Halifax commons, surrounded by union banners and activists.

But, in his speech, he told the audience the New Democrats were "entering a new relationship with organized labour."

Dexter reminded his audience that provincial government spending is unsustainable, and that must change.

In the fall, the Nova Scotia government will begin contract negotiations with thousands of public servants and health-care workers.

Dexter promised there would be free and faithful collective bargaining at that time.