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