CUPE Local 500/City of Winnipeg Negotiations Update - Bulletin #6
March 27, 2017 at 10:46 AM
As you are aware bargaining between CUPE Local 500 and the City of Winnipeg, is being assisted by a provincially appointed conciliation officer. On March 13, the conciliator met with both the City and Union’s negotiating committees to go over outstanding issues and concerns. Both sides will meet again with the conciliation officer on March 28 to continue to work towards an agreement.
You may have also seen recent news that the City has filed an unfair labour practice complaint against the Union alleging that we are bargaining in bad faith. We can also advise you that the Union is responding with a claim that the City is bargaining in bad faith.
As we have noted in previous updates, the employer has tabled an unprecedented and unacceptable proposal package to our negotiating committee. In our view, labour relations between Local 500 and the City have been made difficult by the constant roadblocks imposed by the City’s new Manager of Labour Relations and chief negotiator. It is always our position that reasonable negotiations must happen at the bargaining table.
Despite these challenges, CUPE Local 500 remains committed to negotiating a fair contract, while protecting the city services that Winnipeggers rely on.
Watch for more information
Just as a reminder, that because of the sensitive nature of negotiations, the bargaining committee is not able to give you a step-by-step explanation of everything that is discussed at the bargaining table. However, should we reach a settlement or an impasse, the members will be fully informed.
Your bargaining committee will keep you informed as progress is made. Members should continue to check the bulletin boards for bargaining updates. You can also visit the website at cupe500.mb.ca and/or sign-up for email updates to stay informed.
If you have any questions or concerns about negotiations, please contact us at 204-942-1001.
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
