December 1, 2023

Dear valued member;

I hope this message finds you well. We extend our sincere gratitude to all the members who actively participated in the recent bargaining survey conducted on November 2nd.  Your invaluable feedback has played a pivotal role in shaping our approach to the negotiation process.  The comprehensive survey results have been instrumental in developing key topics for discussion, as well as formulating recommendations for the adjustment of approximately 10 LOU’s and LOC’s (not included in this communication).

Your collective input has set a clear direction for Manitoba Hydro's committee, emphasizing the membership's strong desire to ratify an agreement for 2024 and address outstanding GWI’s for 2022 and 2023 without delay.

To expedite the resolution of these issues, we have identified a focused list of bargaining items, listed below:

1. Wages & Settlement Pay

2. Standby

3. Premiums

4. Travel Rates/Travel Expenses

5. Increments and Reclassification & Recognition for Experience/Certification/Northern Locations

6. Job Security and Reinvesting in the IBEW

7. Employees on Leave

8. Health and Wellness

9. Boot/Safety Equipment Allowance & Tool Purchase Program

10. Duration/Renewal or Revision of Agreement

11. Symmetrical Pay System/Evaluation System

12. Home Starts/Remote work/4-day workweek

13. Sick Leave Vesting & Payout at Retirement

14. Meals on Location/OT Meals (per hour)

15. Alternate Dispute Resolution/Grievance Mediation

16. Accommodation of Employees

17. Isolated Locations

18. Increasing Journeypersons & New Trade Rates

Our bargaining committee convened on November 22nd for the initial exchange of proposals, addressing IBEW topics, eight items from Hydro, and several housekeeping matters. Subsequent meetings on November 28th and November 30th resulted in the approval of approximately three items, including item #10 from the aforementioned list.

Regrettably, on November 28th, the corporation reported that it had not received a financial mandate. After consulting with the VP’s and the CEO, the corporation is not currently inclined to address the unresolved increases for 2022 and 2023. We recognize the challenge of settling 2024 and future years without a resolved foundation for the preceding years unless the corporation demonstrates commitment to substantial reassurances and monetary improvements.

In the coming weeks, the committee may reach out to gauge the membership's interest and conviction to apply substantial pressure, with the aim of securing an all-encompassing offer. Future bargaining dates are scheduled for Dec 5, 6, 7, 13, 14, 19, and 20.

On a related note, during preliminary discussions, we sought costing information on various benefits options. Notably, only 757 of the 2302 members have claimed the $250 wellness subsidy available to the entire membership. This means approximately $360,000 remains unclaimed. We strongly urge all members to take the time to submit claims for this benefit in the coming weeks,  Attached are details for your reference.

Please refer to the updated Wellness Subsidy Policy (P527) for additional details and the

Wellness subsidy eligibility chart

Thank you for your continued support and participation in this important process.

Best regards,

Business Manager
IBEW Local Union 2034