Manitoba Unions Indigenous Bursary in Labour Studies

Manitoba Unions Indigenous Student Prize in Labour Studies was established by Manitoba’s unions to support Indigenous students who are pursuing post-secondary education in the Labour Studies Program at the University of Manitoba.

Inspired by a commitment to reconciliation, the prize aims to create more pathways for Indigenous students to pursue opportunities in the labour movement, as union leaders, staff and member activists. The prize of $5,000 is open to Indigenous students majoring or minoring in Labour Studies.

The deadline for applications is June 1, 2026 and the prize will be awarded at the end of the 2025/26 school year. For more information, please visit the University of Manitoba’s Financial Aid and Awards website: University of Manitoba – Student Affairs – Financial Aid and Awards – Awards & Scholarships

Black History Month – Honoring History, Celebrating Excellence

February is Black History Month, a time to recognize and celebrate the contributions, achievements, and resilience of Black people in Canada and around the world. It is also a time to reflect honestly on history, including the impacts of racism and discrimination, and to recommit ourselves to building more just and inclusive workplaces and communities.

 Black workers, activists, and leaders have played a critical role in advancing labour rights, human rights, and social justice. Their advocacy has helped shape fairer working conditions, stronger communities, and a more equitable society for all. These contributions deserve recognition not just this month, but every day.

 As a union, CUPE 998 is committed to equity, inclusion, and respect. That means listening to Black voices, challenging racism wherever it exists, and supporting meaningful actions that promote dignity and fairness in the workplace. Black History Month is an opportunity to learn, to have important conversations, and to stand in solidarity with our Black members and communities.

 We encourage members to take time this month to learn more about Black history, support Black-led initiatives, and reflect on how each of us can contribute to a workplace where everyone feels safe, valued, and respected.

Together, we honour the past, celebrate the present, and continue working toward a more equitable future.

The MFL Equity & Human Rights Committee is pleased to be partnering with the Union Centre in hosting a special Lunch & Learn event in honour of Black History Month on February 12, from 12 pm – 1 pm (doors open at 11:30 am for lunch). The event will include an informative panel discussion entitled Making Black History in Manitoba, featuring two of the first three Black Manitobans ever to be elected to the Manitoba Legislature: Hon. Jamie Moses and Hon. Uzoma Asagwara. 

Employee Support and Safety Reminder

Regarding the unfortunate incident at Hydro Place on Friday, January 30 (as posted on MPOWER), employees are reminded that support is available through the Employee Assistance Program (EAP). If you would like assistance or an opportunity to speak with someone about how you are feeling, please consider accessing this resource.

Your safety is important. Please remain aware of your surroundings at all times and report any suspicious activity to Security immediately.

If you have any concerns about your personal safety or workplace environment, we encourage you to raise them with your supervisor or department manager.

In Solidarity,
CUPE 998 Executive

CUPE Dues Increase

As shared at our Special Budget General Membership Meeting, over the past seven years we have worked hard to manage our finances responsibly and keep our operating costs stable. This approach has allowed CUPE 998 to maintain one of the lowest membership rates in the country, while continuing to support members through challenging economic conditions without raising dues.

Through thoughtful planning, careful use of book-offs, and disciplined spending within our local, we have made informed financial decisions that have helped us maintain balanced budgets year after year. At the same time, with bargaining outcomes that include general wage and classification increases, CUPE also contributes more in per capita to our national office.

While we recognize that any change to dues is important to members, the decision to implement a $2.50 increase was made with care and with a continued focus on keeping costs efficient and ensuring we can meet the essential needs of our union.

The biweekly dues increase of $2.50 will take effect on Pay Period 3 (February 12, 2026) for both Manitoba Hydro and Efficiency Manitoba CUPE members.

In Solidarity,
CUPE 998 Executive

Arbitration Update ( Hydro)

During bargaining, CUPE 998 and the Corporation reached a collective agreement on a 0.75% pay grade increase for all members.

The Corporation has since indicated a different interpretation as previously communicated resulting in an arbitration filing.

Due to the heavy caseload currently facing arbitrators, the earliest arbitration dates available have been confirmed for June 2026.

As we move through this process, CUPE 998 will continue to keep members informed.

New CUPE 998 Collective Agreement ( Hydro)

The new CUPE Collective Agreement is currently in its final review stage. Once the CUPE Bargaining Team completes its review, the Agreement will be finalized and posted for members.

At that time, hard copies will be available upon request.

Please note that CUPE only received the Corporation’s final draft last week, which has impacted the timeline. We anticipate this process will be completed shortly.