March 31, 2023

Dear Member;

The Negotiation Committees were last scheduled to meet on March 15^th, but unfortunately bargaining was postponed as a result of Manitoba Hydro stating that it was not currently in a position to substantively increase the last offer.  Future bargaining dates which are not currently scheduled, may include the utilization of a mediator.

On a separate, but what we believe to be a related issue, Friday March 27^th Workers Compensation Board (WCB) members (CUPE 1063) accepted and ratified a new collective agreement with increases in wages of 9% over the 4 year period with some other increased benefits.  Here is a brief summary of the offer to CUPE 1063 (WCB)

• 2021- 2.5%
• 2022- 2.25% Total (1.75% plus .5 pay grade adjustment)
• 2023- 2.25% Total (1.75% plus .5 pay grade adjustment)
• 2024- 2% Total (1.5% plus .5 pay grade adjustment)
• 2 mental health days (not from sick leave credits)
• HSA – increase from $700 to $800
• Wellness Spending Account -  increase from $225 to $250
• Car allowance for staff required to regularly use a vehicle – increase from $100 to $150/month

At this point it is not 100% certain to what degree inflation will erode the effective purchasing power over the 4 year period, but we know the annual rate of inflation in 2022 has been calculated at 7.67%.  This will leave 1.32% (of the 9% overall) to cover the remaining 3 years of the contract and with inflation not expected to decline or move in a negative direction, is cause for concern and may represent a decline in the standard of living.

On a positive note, the WCB offer appears to raise the bar for groups affected by public sector mandates that are currently in negotiations, and  we hope to see an increase to Manitoba Hydro's mandate at future bargaining. In the meantime, we have been consulting with other groups that also have had a challenging bargaining environment.  Sharing perspectives and ideas with these groups is and will continue to play into our strategic planning to get the best possible agreement for our membership.  At this point in time, it appears that patience and the steady application of pressure will serve our membership well in the pursuit of a fair deal.  Thank you for your patience and steady support.

In solidarity,

Business Manager
IBEW Local Union 2034