CUPE 998

The Power Line – Connecting CUPE Members across Manitoba Hydro & Efficiency Manitoba

August 6, 2025August 5, 2025

We’re excited to introduce The Power Line—your newly revamped CUPE Local 998 newsletter! This quarterly publication is dedicated to keeping you informed, connected, and empowered. Published four times a year, The Power Line will spotlight the work of our local, highlight member achievements, and keep you up to date on key activities, campaigns, and union news across Manitoba Hydro and Efficiency Manitoba. While the name has changed, our commitment remains the same: delivering clear, relevant, and timely communication that reflects the strength, unity, and voice of CUPE 998.

Thank you for staying plugged in—together, we’re powering a stronger future.

In Solidarity,
CUPE Local 998 Communications Committee

Filipino Street Festival with CUPE Manitoba

August 1, 2025August 1, 2025

Sisters, Brothers, and Friends,

CUPE Manitoba will be participating in the Filipino Street Festival.

Filipino Street Fest 2025 – You’re Invited!

The Filipino Street Festival includes the Filipino Cultural parade on August 16th, alongside two full days of representation in the village with our CUPE MB tent (August 16-17) at Maples Multiplex, 434 Adsum Drive.

Parade:
This year’s theme is WIKA, MUSIKA at SARI SARING PANGHIMAGAS ( Language, Music and assorted desserts). The Parade will be a walking parade this year, on Saturday August 16th, 6pm at Maples Multiplex.

CUPE Manitoba’s organizing committee is encouraging all Filipino/a members and allies to join us! Please be sure to sign up below so that we can count you in!

Organizing Committee:
Members of the Filipino/a community are invited to join the organizing committee to contribute to creating our parade entry and booth!
Through decorating, representation, and helping showcase our celebration of culture!

In years past, we have had a number of CUPE volunteers, staff, and families participate, and new this year, we will be encouraging the planning and shifts at the event to showcase CUPE’s Filipino/a members to celebrate your leadership, activism and representation in the Union!
Please promote this event to your members and post the poster on your CUPE bulletin boards in workplaces.

If any members are interested in volunteering, please have them contact Deanna West at the CUPE Manitoba office: officeadmin@cupe.mb.ca.

We have a special T-shirt designed by the organizing committee, available for volunteers and the first 50 members that sign up to help represent CUPE Manitoba! Please RSVP no later than Monday August 11, 2025 by 4pm.

The first 50 members will be confirmed through an Email reply where a shirt size will be confirmed. Shirts will be distributed the morning of the parade and are to be worn during the parade and event!

We look forward to hearing from you, and having you join us in representing the rich history, leadership and contributions of the Filipino community!

For more details on the events : https://manitobafilipino.com/

CUPE 998 Scholarship Deadline – August 8th

July 30, 2025

The deadline to apply for the CUPE 998 Scholarship is quickly approaching! Members and their families are encouraged to submit their applications by Thursday, August 8th, 2025.

This scholarship program is part of CUPE 998’s commitment to supporting education and helping our members and their dependents achieve their academic goals.

Don’t miss your chance to apply!
Ensure that all required documents and application forms are completed and submitted before the deadline. Late submissions cannot be accepted.

For details on eligibility, application requirements, or to download the application form, visit our CUPE 998 Scholarship Page or contact the CUPE 998 office directly.

Apply now and take the next step toward your educational future!

Responsibilities of Strike Committee Members and Picket Captains

July 30, 2025July 30, 2025

As we prepare for all possible outcomes during bargaining, it is important to remember that strike action is not our goal—our primary objective is to negotiate a fair and reasonable deal for all CUPE 998 members. However, to be effective at the bargaining table, we must be organized and ready if job action becomes necessary.

Strike Committee Responsibilities:

Assist in planning, organizing, and coordinating strike-related activities if required.
Ensure clear communication between union leadership and members.
Help manage logistics, including picket schedules, signage, and materials.
Provide updates and information to members regarding strike protocols.

Picket Captain Responsibilities:

Oversee and coordinate picket lines during assigned shifts.
Ensure all members follow picket line rules and maintain a respectful, safe environment.
Act as the main point of contact between picketers and the Strike Committee.
Report any issues or incidents immediately to the committee.

Training Provided:
Full training will be provided for all Strike Committee members and Picket Captains to ensure you feel confident and prepared to take on these roles if required.

Your involvement is essential in strengthening our solidarity and showing that we are united in achieving a fair deal for everyone. Contact the CUPE 998 office if you are interested to joining the Strike Committee or becoming a Picket Captain

Thank you for your commitment during this important time.

In Solidarity,

CUPE 998 Bargaining Team

Update on Bargaining & Strike Preparation

July 28, 2025

CUPE entered into conciliation with the employer on July 22 and 23. Meaningful discussions took place during these meetings, and the conciliator suggested a brief pause to allow both parties time to consider new proposals that emerged. These suggestions warrant careful consideration, and as a result, new conciliation dates have been scheduled for August 8 and August 21.

CUPE remains optimistic and is committed to securing a fair and reasonable offer that we can bring to the membership for further discussion.

While our ultimate goal is to avoid strike action and reach a fair agreement, strike preparation is still essential. Preparing for the possibility of a strike does not mean one is imminent. It simply means we are being responsible and taking necessary precautions to ensure we are ready should job action become necessary.

The Strike-Averting Campaign has begun. We will continue to advocate for a fair deal, and we will update members as soon as we have a final offer to present for consideration and discussion.

If you are interested in joining the Strike Committee or serving as a Picket Captain, please contact the CUPE office
Thank you for your continued support and solidarity.

In Solidarity
CUPE 998 Bargaining Team

CUPE 998 Strike-Averting Campaign: Working Towards a Fair Deal

July 22, 2025July 22, 2025

CUPE 998 Strike-Averting Campaign: Working Towards a Fair Deal

Our strike-averting campaign is officially underway, with billboards appearing across the province beginning Monday, July 21, 2025. These billboards are a visible reminder of the union’s unwavering commitment to securing a fair and reasonable agreement for all our members — without the need for strike action, if possible.

Billboard Locations:
Winnipeg

McPhillips St – William Ave
Lagimodiere Blvd – Dugald Rd
Pembina Hwy – Jubilee Ave
Portage Ave – Sturgeon Rd (2 locations)

Brandon

18 St – Park Ave

Portage La Prairie

Saskatchewan Ave West – Fourth St

Selkirk

Main St – Berrisford Ave

Steinbach

Brandt St – Main St

Why This Campaign Matters

This campaign is about protecting your rights, your wages, and your future. By raising public awareness and showing our solidarity, we strengthen our position at the bargaining table. A fair deal benefits not only our members but also supports a stronger workplace culture, improved morale, and fair treatment for everyone.

Bargaining Update

Your bargaining team begins conciliation with the employer from July 22–24, 2025. Our primary goal remains clear: To achieve a fair, equitable, and reasonable agreement for our members — and to do so without resorting to strike action, if possible.

Once conciliation concludes, we will provide a full update and next steps to our membership. Your continued support and solidarity are critical as we push for the fair deal you deserve.

In Solidarity,
CUPE Local 998 Bargaining Committee

CUPE 998 Launches Review to Protect Our Jobs

July 18, 2025

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

July 14, 2025

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, 7^th Floor)
Essa Alkhaldi (360 Portage Ave, 4^th Floor)
Fran Hayes (360 Portage Ave, 19^th Floor)
Liza Minotti (360 Portage Ave, 4^th 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

August 6, 2025July 9, 2025

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.