CUPE 998 Launches Review to Protect Our Jobs

The Wages & Agreements committee is taking proactive steps to protect our jobs and ensure our work remains within our bargaining unit. Recently, we have identified a growing concern where CUPE positions are being reclassified or moved into other jurisdictions, including AMHSSE, Unifor, Corporate Exempt, and IBEW.

Why This Matters

Every CUPE job represents fair wages, strong benefits, and workplace rights that we have fought hard to achieve. When positions are moved out of our jurisdiction, our collective power and the protections we have negotiated for our members are put at risk. Job erosion weakens our union, and we will not stand by while our work is reassigned elsewhere.

Our Action Plan

The Wages and Agreements Committee is leading a comprehensive review to ensure that CUPE work stays with CUPE members. This review will include:

  • Auditing CUPE Certifications: We are reviewing our jurisdictional certificates to ensure that CUPE’s scope of work is clearly defined and protected.
  • Demanding Transparency from Hydro: We are requesting detailed reports from Hydro on all CUPE jobs that have been reclassified or lost to other unions or exempt roles in recent years.
  • Analyzing Job Descriptions: We are comparing CUPE job descriptions with those now assigned to other unions to identify improper transfers of work.
  • Strengthening Protections: Findings from this review will shape our bargaining proposals and any necessary legal or arbitration actions to stop further job losses.

How You Can Help

We are asking members to report any instances where CUPE work is being done by non-CUPE employees. Your input is critical to helping us track changes and hold the employer accountable.

Our Commitment

CUPE 998 is committed to fighting for every job that belongs in our jurisdiction. We will keep our members informed as this review progresses and share the steps we are taking to safeguard our bargaining unit work.

Welcome to Our New CUPE Local 998 Stewards

We are pleased to announce and welcome the newest stewards who have joined our Local 998 team. Stewards are a cornerstone of our union—dedicated advocates who work tirelessly to protect the rights and interests of all members. Their role is vital in supporting a fair, respectful, and supportive workplace for everyone.

Our new stewards bring with them passion, and commitment to union values. They are here to listen, support, and act—ensuring your voice is heard and your rights are upheld.

New Stewards for Hydro

  • Brent Bertram (Brandon)
  • Charlene Laderoute (360 Portage Ave, 7th Floor)
  • Essa Alkhaldi (360 Portage Ave, 4th Floor)
  • Fran Hayes (360 Portage Ave, 19th Floor)
  • Liza Minotti (360 Portage Ave, 4th Floor)

New Steward for Efficiency Manitoba

  • Donna Kolish (City Place)

Our stewards serve as a link between the membership and the executive team, helping to ensure that concerns are heard, addressed, and acted upon with integrity and care. This is a two year term and training will take place early fall.

Please join us in welcoming and supporting these new stewards as they step into this important role. We encourage all members to connect with them regarding any workplace concerns, questions, or suggestions. They are here to serve you and strengthen our collective voice.

We would also like to take a moment to thank our current executive members who continue to serve as stewards.

In Solidarity,
Gordon Meneer
Lead Steward, CUPE Local 998

CUPE Local 998 Launches New Communications to Keep Members Connected

CUPE Local 998 and the Communications Committee are proud to introduce three new publications designed to keep our members well-informed and engaged with the work of their union.

Wired In – Powering Communications That Matter Exclusively for CUPE members at Manitoba Hydro, this publication will highlight news, updates, and key developments relevant to your workplace.

Watt Matters – Keeping You Plugged in to What Matters
Tailored specifically for CUPE members at Efficiency Manitoba, this newsletter will cover issues, initiatives, and member highlights unique to your organization.

The Power Line – Connecting CUPE Across Manitoba Hydro & Efficiency Manitoba
This joint publication will focus on topics that impact members across both crown corporations, fostering a stronger connection and shared understanding within our broader membership.

Meet Your Communications Team:

  • Michael Crowley, Chair
  • Donna Kolish, Efficiency Manitoba
  • Liza Minotti, Manitoba Hydro
  • Michelle Bergen, CUPE 998 President

We believe that clear, timely, and relevant communication is key to a strong and united union. If there’s a topic, you’d like us to feature, we welcome your input. Please reach out to any member of the Communications Committee or contact the CUPE 998 office directly.

Together, we’re building a more informed and connected union.

                                                

 

CUPE 998 TURNS 60 – LOGO DESIGN CONTEST

CUPE 998 is turning 60 in 2026, and we’re inviting all members to be part of the celebration by showcasing your creativity!

We’re launching a Commemorative Logo Design Contest and we want your design to mark this milestone.

The winning logo will be featured on:

  • Official communications
  • Promotional materials
  • Anniversary apparel throughout 2026

CONTEST THEME: Celebrating 60 Years of CUPE 998

HOW TO ENTER: Submit your original logo design in digital format to the CUPE 998 Office

DEADLINE: September 30, 2025

WHO CAN ENTER: All CUPE 998 Members from Manitoba Hydro and Efficiency Manitoba

PRIZES:

  • 1st Place: Your logo featured throughout 2026 + a prize pack
  • 2nd & 3rd Place: Honorable mention prizes

Be creative. Be bold. Be part of CUPE 998 history. Submit your Design Today!

CUPE 2025/2026 Scholarships

Just a REMINDER the Deadline for application is August 8, 2025

CUPE 998 is pleased to announce the availability of scholarships for eligible students affiliated with Manitoba Hydro & Efficiency Manitoba, offering four Scholarships and one joint Bursary in collaboration with RRCC Polytech for the upcoming 2025/2026 academic year.

Applications for the 2025/2026 Scholarships and Bursary are currently being accepted.

Scholarship Poster 2025

For comprehensive details and qualification criteria, kindly refer to the attached Poster, Outline, and Applications. It is important to note that these scholarships are exclusively open to students who have not previously received a Scholarship.

In a significant development this year, the CUPE Executives introduce a fourth scholarship, namely the Reconcile Action scholarship (further details provided below).

Should you have any inquiries or require assistance, please do not hesitate to reach out to the Education Committee Chair Gord Meneer or contact the Union office at (204) 415-5114

** Please note you can forward your application with supporting documents via email to cupe998@shawbiz.ca or mail it to the CUPE office through interoffice mail. **

Attached documents:
– Award Outline 2025
– Application Form 2025
– Bursary Award Outline 2025

 

CUPE 998 Preparing for Collective Bargaining at Efficiency Manitoba

CUPE 998 and Efficiency Manitoba have successfully concluded the Essential Services Agreement, which has now been filed with the Manitoba Labour Board. As outlined in the agreement, no positions within Efficiency Manitoba have been designated as essential.

With this important step completed, CUPE 998 is now preparing for collective bargaining. The current collective agreement is set to expire on December 31, 2025.

Collective bargaining is a vital process that protects workers’ rights and ensures our members’ voices are heard. CUPE 998 is committed to negotiating a fair and equitable agreement that recognizes the critical role our members play in the success of Efficiency Manitoba.

To ensure our bargaining priorities reflect what matters most to our members, a pre-bargaining survey will be circulated this fall. Your feedback will be instrumental in shaping our proposals and strengthening our position at the table.

Details about the bargaining team and next steps will also be shared this fall. Together, we will continue to protect and advance the interests of all CUPE 998 members.

In Solidarity
Michelle Bergen
President CUPE Local 998

CUPE Bargaining Update – Hydro

CUPE 998 continues to fight for a fair collective agreement for CUPE members at Manitoba Hydro.

As previously shared on May 30, 2025, CUPE Local 998 and Manitoba Hydro have agreed to enter the conciliation process. The conciliation process is where a third-party mediator attempts to resolve outstanding issues between the union and the employer’s positions.

Conciliation dates have now been confirmed for the end of July. While we remain cautiously optimistic, any meaningful progress will depend on Hydro’s willingness to come to the table in good faith in getting a fair deal done.

Will We Go On Strike?

To date, your Bargaining Committee has met with the employer 20 times. We have worked diligently to present our proposals, ensuring they reflect the core values and priorities of our membership.

Unfortunately, the employer continues to refuse to offer a fair deal. CUPE 998 members voted 93.7% in favor of a strike mandate. This does not mean we are on strike. Nonetheless, while we enter the conciliation process, CUPE 998 is preparing our strike plans.

If the conciliation process does not result in meaningful improvements, we will come back to membership for further discussions on next steps including the potential of taking strike action

What Are The Outstanding Issues?

The employer continues to refuse to offer monetary improvements (wages etc.) that reflect what others in the public sector are receiving. The employer wants to offer you less, while CUPE 998 believes in fairness for our members. CUPE 998 is united and ready to stand firm for a fair and respectful agreement. It is time for Manitoba Hydro to recognize our value and treat employees with the respect you have earned. We will continue to update you as negotiations continue. Please feel free to reach out if you have any questions.

In Solidarity,
CUPE Local 998 Bargaining Committee

 

Impacted by Wildfires – Hydro

CUPE Local 998 Stands in Solidarity

CUPE Local 998 would like to share the recent article published in the Hydrogram, which highlights support for those affected by the most recent wildfires across our province.

As your union, CUPE is here for you. Whether it’s through advocacy, communication, or simply being a source of support, we stand with all our members, and with everyone affected.

Within Manitoba Hydro, many of our employees have been personally affected by the ongoing wildfires.

If you have been directly impacted by the wildfires and need support (either with respect to your work or personal circumstances, such as being evacuated from your home) please contact: peoplewildfiresupport@hydro.mb.ca.

You will reach a dedicated team assembled by the People Divisions, working to identify and support affected employees and ensure you and your families are safe and supported during this difficult time.

A guide of frequently asked questions (FAQ) is also available for your reference. It covers items related to alternate work arrangements, continuity of pay, access to benefits and wellness resources, and other human resources topics.

If you have any questions or concerns that are not addressed in the FAQ, please reach out to our team at peoplewildfiresupport@hydro.mb.ca. This inbox is monitored during regular business hours.

 

CUPE 998 Equal Rights and Opportunity Committee – 2025 Member Engagement

At CUPE Local 998, the Equal Rights and Opportunity (ERO) Committee remains committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful, and equitable workplace for all members. This year, the committee has been actively engaging with our membership through a variety of initiatives focused on education, awareness, and collaboration.

2025 Member Engagement Highlights:

  • Awareness Involvement: The ERO Committees involvement on different campaigns around International Women’s Day, International Day of Persons with Disabilities, National Indigenous Peoples Day, and Pride Month is some of the involvement the ERO Committee has been involved in highlighting equity issues and amplifying diverse voices within our union.
  • Lunch & Learn Events: We are exploring options on hosting a series of virtual and in-person sessions covering topics like workplace discrimination, union activism, intersectionality, allyship, and inclusive language—creating safe spaces for open dialogue and learning.
  • Representation and Collaboration: Members of the ERO Committee have partnered with other CUPE 998 committees to ensure equal rights are a consideration in bargaining, health and safety, and education planning.

As always, the strength of our committee comes from the involvement of our members. If you are passionate about fairness, inclusion, and equity, we encourage you to reach out and get involved. Together, we can continue to build a stronger, more inclusive union.

If you have questions or would like to connect with the ERO Committee, please contact us through your CUPE 998 representative or send an email to Committee Chair Jonny Maria

In solidarity,
CUPE 998 Equal Rights and Opportunity Committee