CUPE Local 500/City of Winnipeg- Bargaining Update #26
August 29, 2022 at 2:00 PM
Negotiations between CUPE Local 500 and the City of Winnipeg continued with the assistance of the conciliator on August 23 – 25.
Your bargaining committee is encouraged by the discussions that took place but there is still more work to do on the key issue of wages. During our last session, the union countered the employer’s new wage offer and we are awaiting their response. We are working hard to find meaningful ways to reach a fair and reasonable settlement that meets the priorities of our members.
Our next conciliation dates are scheduled for September 6, 7 & 8.
Essential Services
Your bargaining committee met on Friday, August 26 to discuss our strategy and review the city’s essential services plan. Deciding what work is essential is a standard part of bargaining. It is done in a way that ensures the safety of our members and the public, while identifying the minimum level of work that is required in the event of any job action. We’ll keep you updated on this process as more information becomes available.
Why aren’t we going on strike now?
Some members have been asking why aren't we striking now? As we said in our last update, your bargaining committee remains hopeful that we can conclude a fair agreement without having to resort to job action. The next set of conciliation dates will be a crucial time for the bargaining committee. We are fully prepared with a strategy and path forward should there be no further progress.
We’re committed to keeping you informed on any new developments as we continue through the conciliation process – stay tuned.
Why is this taking so long?
We know our members are concerned that this round of negotiations is taking far too long. Your bargaining committee feels the same and wants to thank you for your continued patience, engagement and support. Our goal is to conclude a new agreement with a fair wage increase you can support that respects the important work you do, and the services you provide.
Watch for more information
Please keep an eye on your home email or workplace bulletin board for further updates. You can also access all of our bargaining updates on our social media sites or the Local 500 website at cupe500.mb.ca.
As always, please feel free to reach out to the bargaining committee by emailing us at union@cupe500.mb.ca if you have any questions or concerns.
Stronger together!
In solidarity,
Your Bargaining Committee
Gord Delbridge, President, CUPE Local 500
Carmen Prefontaine, President, Civic Services Unit
Phil Dembicki, President, Community Services Unit
Nicholas McClurg, President, Public Works Unit/Local 500 SAO
Madelaine Dwyer, President, Water and Waste Unit
Rebecca Scott, Member at Large/Local 500 SAO
Jon Shalapata, Member at Large
Alex McClurg, CUPE National Staff Representative
Kevin Carswell, CUPE National Staff Representative
Dale Edmunds, CUPE National Staff Representative
Elizabeth Wheeler, CUPE National Staff Representative
Karen Byzuk, Local 500 Staff
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