Dear Members,

As we near the end of 2024, I want to take a moment to reflect on the year behind us. It has been a time of challenges, growth, and remarkable solidarity within our union. Together, we have faced obstacles head-on, celebrated our collective achievements, and supported one another through times of uncertainty.

This year, our Local has made strides in key areas, including securing remote work options for members in the Customer Engagement Center and parts of Digital & Technology. These advancements have provided much-needed flexibility for members whose work-life balance often felt out of reach. We’ve also worked diligently to address grievances, culminating in an arbitration scheduled for 2025, and continued to advocate fiercely at the bargaining table for a fair and equitable contract with Manitoba Hydro. While our Essential Services Agreement negotiations are ongoing and a new contract won’t be in place by January 1, 2025, I want to assure you that we are committed to securing a deal that reflects the value and contributions of every member.

Beyond negotiations, we’ve launched initiatives that reflect our union’s core values of inclusivity and support. This includes the Reconcile Action Scholarship and a joint bursary with the Manitoba Federation of Labour for Indigenous Studies, as well as a collaboration with Total Rewards on pre-retirement seminars to help members prepare for the future. On a national level, CUPE 998 has remained a strong voice in protecting public services and jobs through my ongoing work as Co-Chair of CUPE National’s Contracting Out and Privatization Committee.

While we’ve made progress, we’re also keenly aware of the challenges many members have faced—from increasing workloads and rising stress levels to navigating a shifting corporate culture. These issues have underscored the importance of prioritizing mental health and fostering an environment where no one feels alone. This is a message I want to emphasize as we move forward: you are not alone. Together, as a union and as a community, we will continue to advocate for recognition, fairness, and support for every member.

Looking ahead to 2025, we have exciting plans to strengthen our union and engagement:

• A Steward Drive led by our new Lead Steward, Gord Meneer, to inspire more members to get involved also to join one of our Committees.
• Launching a new CUPE 998 website to provide better communication and resources.
• Expanding CUPE education opportunities and bolstering our campaign against contracting out.
• Preparing for bargaining with Efficiency Manitoba to secure fair agreements for all members.

As the holiday season approaches, I encourage you to prioritize rest and mental well-being. This time of year, is an opportunity to connect with loved ones, reflect on what truly matters, and recharge for the year ahead. Remember, our union’s greatest strength lies in the connections we build and the solidarity we share. Together, we are stronger.

On behalf of the CUPE 998 Executive and support staff, I wish you a safe, joyful, and peaceful holiday season. Thank you for your trust, resilience, and dedication. Let’s continue to stand together in solidarity and strength as we move into 2025.

In solidarity,
Michelle Bergen
President, CUPE Local 998