Important Voting Information for the Upcoming CUPE Election

Dear CUPE Members,

As we approach the end of the Campaigning Period on November 15, 2024, please note that all campaign websites will be taken down at that time.

Starting on November 18, 2024, the Voting Period will officially begin. Simply Voting, our trusted election partner, will manage the election process. All CUPE members will receive an email from Simply Voting at your work email address with detailed instructions on how to cast your vote.

The Voting Period will be open from November 18 and will close on November 22, 2024, at 4:00 p.m. We strongly encourage all members to participate—your vote is essential in shaping the future of our union and ensuring your voice is heard.

Once the election concludes, candidates will be promptly notified of the results.

Your candidates and biographies for the CUPE Executive Election are as follows:

President

1st Vice President

2nd Vice President

Treasurer

Recording Secretary

Acclaimed

Executives at Large

  • Jonny Maria
  • Nick Ogryzlo
  • Jason Paintin

In Solidarity,
Nomination Committee

 

 

Anti Scab Legislation PASSED

Dear Sisters, Brothers, and Friends,

Finally, after 50 years of fighting, we have won 50% + 1 card check and anti-scab legislation. And thanks to Premier Wab Kinew and his NDP government, we have the strongest card check and anti-scab law in Canada.

Bill 37 was given Royal Assent last night, meaning 50% + 1 card check and a ban on scab labour are now the law in Manitoba. Our labour movement never lost hope of winning these protections for workers, and now the dreams of generations of union activists have come true.

Now that this law is in place, it is easier than ever before for workers to join a union. If a majority of employees in a workplace sign a union application card, they’ll get a union.

Due to amendments that the government made, Manitoba’s anti-scab law includes the broadest definition of scab labour in Canada. And it also includes earlier exemptions for unions and employers who don’t supply any essential services, reducing red tape and conflict around essential service agreements.

For much more information about the new rules regarding card check, anti-scab and essential services, please read our FACT SHEET. We have also included a POSTER announcing this major win for working people and their unions in Manitoba.

Unfortunately, the Legislative Assembly website has not yet been updated to incorporate the newly adopted amendments into the text of Bill 37. The website still has the original text of Bill 37 (see Schedule D), and, separately, the amendments.

To make things easier, we’ve created our own updated version of the bill, with all the amendments included.

I want to thank all of the unions and labour activists who helped us win this historic rebalancing of Manitoba’s labour laws.

Thank you as well to Premier Kinew and Labour Minister Malaya Marcelino for championing card check and anti-scab, and to Finance Minister Adrien Sala for bringing these protections forward in his budget legislation after the Opposition PCs tried to block them from being introduced.

These new rights for workers will mean bigger paycheques, greater job security and safer workplaces.

Let’s Get Organizing.

In Solidarity,
Kevin Rebeck
President of the Manitoba Federation of Labour

 

Bargaining Info Sessions

Thank you to our members who attended the CUPE Bargaining Info Sessions. We hope the session provided valuable insights into current bargaining trends across the province. Understanding these trends is crucial as they impact the negotiations for fair wages, benefits, and working conditions for all members.

Our next bargaining session is scheduled for November 12, when the corporation will respond to the counterproposal we presented on November 5, 2024. Your continued support and engagement are essential as we work together to secure a fair and equitable agreement.

In Solidarity,

Your Bargaining Team
Michelle Bergen, Jonny Maria, Jason Paintin, Gord Meneer, Natalie Sinclair & Michael Crowley

 

CUPE Bargaining Update with Manitoba Hydro

Dear Members,

We are reaching out to provide an update on the ongoing bargaining process with Manitoba Hydro. The CUPE Bargaining Team met with the corporation on October 11, 15, 24, 29, and November 1, 2024, to discuss monetary proposals.

As a recap of recent developments:

  • On October 11, Manitoba Hydro presented their initial monetary proposals.
  • On October 15, CUPE submitted our own monetary proposals in response.
  • On October 24, the corporation returned with a counteroffer, prompting CUPE to further review the proposal and prepare a response.
  • On October 29, CUPE presented a counterproposal to Manitoba Hydro’s offer.
  • On November 1, the corporation made another counterproposal, leading to a full day of discussion among our bargaining team.

We are encouraged by the ongoing progress and believe we are moving closer to reaching a tentative agreement. Our efforts remain focused and steadfast as we work diligently toward this goal.

The next bargaining session is scheduled for November 5, during which CUPE will present a revised counterproposal.

Thank you for your continued support. We will keep you informed as negotiations progress.

In Solidarity,
Your Bargaining Team
Michelle Bergen, Jonny Maria, Jason Paintin, Gord Meneer, Natalie Sinclair & Michael Crowley

 

CUPE 998 Mousepads

The CUPE 998 mousepads have arrived and will be distributed to members over the coming weeks. If you would prefer to pick up your mousepad at the CUPE office, please email cupe998@shawbiz.ca.

 

 

Bargaining Info Sessions

Good Afternoon,

These bargaining info sessions will address significant provincial trends, CUPE’s stance on wages and wage harmonization, and the effects of government changes on bargaining over the past decade. Attendance is strongly encouraged, as members will gain valuable insights into the 2024 bargaining landscape.

The Info sessions are as follows:

Please note the in person sessions at 360 Portage are at days end to ensure all can attend one session and due to room availability.

  • Oct 30 – 12:00 -12:45 – Zoom ( Registration is required )

Register in advance for this webinar:
https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_ELEcSdRNSLaeZGbv6pQpRQ

After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar

Oct 31 – Selkirk 177 Main St

  • 11:30 – 12:15  & 12:15 – 1:00 pm ( due to room availability )

Nov 5th – 360 Portage Ave

  • 4:30 – 5:15  Meeting Room  03-307 & 03-308

Nov 12 – 360 Portage

  • 4:00 – 5:00  Meeting Room 03-307 & 03-308

 

Bargaining Info Sessions

The bargaining committee will commence a series of informational sessions next week, offering both in-person and Zoom options. These sessions will address significant provincial trends, CUPE’s stance on wage harmonization, and the effects of government changes on bargaining over the past decade. Attendance is strongly encouraged, as members will gain valuable insights into the 2024 bargaining landscape.

 

Session dates will be announced shortly. Each session will run for approximately 30 to 45 minutes, presenting the same content. Time will also be allocated for questions and member feedback on the topics discussed.

Revamping Our Union Website – Improved Features and Enhanced Security

We’re excited to announce that our union website is undergoing a major revamp to better serve you. We are in the planning stages. The new and improved site will not only be more user-friendly but will also include enhanced security features to ensure your information is protected.

Our goal is to create a more accessible and secure platform that makes it easier to stay informed, access important updates, and engage with the union. These changes are designed with your privacy in mind, and we’re committed to maintaining a safe and reliable online environment for all members.

Stay tuned for more updates as we roll out these improvements in 2025. Thank you for your continued support and engagement!

 

Important Update: Benefit Enhancements Including Teladoc Services

The Union has been getting inquires about the benefit enhancements that Hydro has introduced, Total Rewards has released this information to CUPE to share. The biggest concern is Teladoc services which provides you and your family with expert medical support. These services are designed to help you make informed health decisions at no extra cost. Here’s an overview of how these benefits can assist you:

Telemedicine
Teladoc also offers 24/7 access to healthcare providers via app, web, or phone. This on-demand service is available anywhere in Canada and while traveling in the U.S., at no cost to you. If a prescription is needed, it will be sent directly to the pharmacy of your choice. With support available in 150 languages, Teladoc makes it easy to receive care when and where you need it.

For more information on how to add dependents, Telemedicine Welcome Letter

Telemedicine_What to Know

How to access Telemedicine

Expert Medical Service
Your benefits now include access to nationally recognized medical professionals across 450 specialties. Teladoc can provide you with a second opinion, guidance on treatment options, and help navigate the healthcare system. You can receive expert medical opinions on a variety of conditions, including:
– Getting a second opinion on diagnoses or treatments
– Finding local or international specialists
– Accessing healthcare resources and information

This service gives you peace of mind by offering professional advice, all from the comfort of your home.

For more information, you can view the EMS Welcome Letter  [Read More Here]

Expert Medical Opinion (EMO)
You also have access to expert medical advice on any diagnosis, treatment, or surgery. This service is free of charge and covers a wide range of medical conditions such as:
– Back, joint, or neck pain
– Digestive issues
– Heart disease, strokes, and heart attacks
– Cancer and tumors

Teladoc’s medical experts provide comprehensive reviews to ensure you’re making well-informed health decisions. You can view the EMO_Welcome Letter

Expert Medical Opinion what you need to know

Family Access
In addition to your personal benefits, your parents and parents-in-law are also eligible for these services at no extra cost. Teladoc can help your family members with second opinions, treatment reviews, and navigating healthcare decisions. This ensures your entire family receives the best possible medical guidance, reducing uncertainty and helping protect your loved ones.

Overview

How to add dependents

Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions about these new benefits or how to access them.