Winnipeg, Manitoba — Manitoba’s public employees could be the next workforce to take its place on the picket line, as an impasse between the Manitoba Government and General Employees’ Union (MGEU) and MPI could see the crown insurer shuttered for the time being.
The MGEU published a statement last Friday in response to wage increases offered by MPI, saying the offer fails to “keep pace with rising inflation.”
The union representing MPI’s 1,700 employees turned down a two percent wage increase in favour of the same 3.3. percent increase received by Manitoba’s Premier Heather Stefanson and her cabinet.
“It’s unfortunate that the Stefanson government continues to provide unfair, restrictive wage mandates to public employers, while the Premier and her cabinet are on track to receive raises that are significantly higher than anything they’re offering workers,” MGEU president Kyle Ross said in a press release.
“Our members have had enough of these kinds of offers that will put them further and further behind while the cost of living continues to rise. They just want a reasonable wage increase that’s in line with what the Premier will be receiving herself.”
The MGEU’s bargaining committee, therefore, recommended its members reject MPI’s offer and vote in favour of a strike mandate next month.
MPI spokesperson Kari Dykes offered the following statement to the Winnipeg Free Press regarding its negotiations with employees.
“MPI has a deep appreciation for its employees and their dedication to delivering quality services, and believes the final offer reflects a balance between our commitment to our staff and our responsibility to remain financially accountable to the public,” said Dykes.
