Greetings, fellow IBEW 2034 members 

I would like to thank my supporters for allowing me the opportunity to fill the position of President for this local union. I am honored to represent a membership of valued employees, who through their ongoing efforts, supply the required skills needed to provide the growing demand of all Manitoba Hydro customers.

I encourage each of you to become actively involved in making employment at Manitoba Hydro the best possible experience it can be. Within the structure of the IBEW 2034 there are a variety of avenues in which an individual, or a group of individuals, can make positive changes in the workplace. Unit meetings are held monthly across the province, and are open to any member of our local. This is an excellent opportunity for you to initiate discussion on any workplace conditions or concerns you believe could be improved. Other avenues are also open to you, such as contacting an area representative, a steward, or the union office directly.

With respect to safety in the workplace there are provisions in place to address concerns and implement improvements which you may have. We have established Workplace Safety and Health Committees for different areas throughout the corporation and have IBEW 2034 members on each committee within our jurisdiction. As you may know, the Corporate Safety and Health Division is currently working to implement recommendations made to improve Manitoba Hydro’s safety program. Many of these recommendations will be implemented through the Workplace Safety and Health Committees, and will become known through training as well as safety meetings. Committee members play an important role in obtaining feedback from employees who are receiving the training or instruction. Again, I encourage you to contact these members with any and all safety concerns. Feel free to give me a call if you are unsure who your representatives are.

Finally, I will bring to your attention the observance of The National Day of Mourning on April 28^th, 2008. At 11:00 am, we will hold a moment of silence, to acknowledge all those that have been injured, killed or suffer illness due to a workplace incident. Remember also, the loved ones who continue to grieve, or are by the side of those recovering or hospitalized. Safety in the workplace is a great responsibility which we all bear. Consider your co-workers safety as important as your own, while looking forward to a healthy and prosperous future.

Ryan Wiebe

President IBEW 2034