March 31, 2017 at 8:46 AM

Further to the bargaining update on March 27, 2017, the two parties met with the conciliation officer on March 28.  During the meeting, the employer provided the union with some additional information about the changes they are proposing to the collective agreement. 

Between now and the next bargaining session, the Union’s negotiating committee will meet to discuss the information presented to us by the employer.  The next conciliation session between the two parties is scheduled for April 10.

Rumours

There is no doubt you will continue to hear rumours and misinformation during this round of bargaining.  But as our bargaining updates have stated, don’t rely on the rumour mill and media reports for information.  Ignore the rumours and get the facts from the Union.  Local 500 provides members with a number of ways to keep informed about the latest bargaining-related and other news, issues and events, including:

·      Bulletin updates faxed to your workplace;

·      Local 500 website at cupe500.mb.ca;

·      Email updates sent to your personal email address;

·      Social media (facebook and twitter)    

·      Phone blasts

Please make sure that your membership information is up to date.  If you are not sure we have your correct information, you can contact the Local 500 office at 204-942-1001 or by email: union@cupe500.mb.ca.

Members asking for information about strike procedures

Some members have been asking questions about strike procedures.  We want to assure you that talks have not broken off and we are still in contract negotiations with the City. Should we reach a point that we need to call on you to support job action, you will be provided with all of the necessary information regarding strike procedures. 

In the meantime, here are the answers to some common questions that members have been asking with respect to benefits during a strike:

What happens to my benefits if I’m on strike?

Pension:    

Contributions are suspended during a strike and no pensionable service is accumulated.  The period of a strike does count as service for the purpose of the Rule of 80 calculation and for service toward the 30 year calculation. 

Workers Compensation:        

Coverage continues during the strike if you are off work on WCB the day the strike begins.  If you are working in a rehabilitative position, and collecting WCB, your payments will stop during the strike.

Maternity Leave:You will continue to receive your EI benefits but will not continue to receive the city top up while on strike.  If you prefer, you may cancel your EI benefits, sign up for picket duty and collect strike pay.

Other Benefits:  All other benefits are suspended, however, the strike fund may cover, under certain circumstances, Group Life and Extended Health Benefit premiums.

Watch for further information:

Your bargaining committee will continue to keep you informed on the progress being made at the bargaining table.  We know that bargaining can be a stressful time for all of you and we appreciate your patience and support.

In solidarity,

 

Your Negotiating Committee,

Gord Delbridge, President

Danielle Carriere, Civic Services Unit

Mike Wakefield, Community Services Unit

Todd Halldorson, Public Works Unit

Pierre Sarrasin, Water and Waste Unit

Dave Gaudreau, Member At Large

Kevin Jaworski, Member At Large

Alex McClurg, CUPE National Staff Representative

George Bouchard, CUPE National Staff Representative

Kevin Carswell, CUPE National Staff Representative

Bob Ripley, Local 500 Special Assignments Officer

Karen Byzuk, Local 500 Special Assignments Officer     

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