Energy

Workers tell Premier Heather Stefanson: Manitoba Hydro workers deserve a fair deal!

WINNIPEG—Unifor Local 681 and other Unifor members from across the region will rally at the legislature on Day #30 of the ongoing natural gas workers’ strike.

“Premier Heather Stefanson doesn’t get it: front line gas workers deserve fairness,” said Gavin McGarrigle, Unifor Western Regional Director. “The government could end the strike today with a new collective agreement with the same wage increases already signed off for other Crown workers.”

What:    News conference and rally for Manitoba Hydro workers

Wage increases and a comprehensive benefits package are highlights of a new three-year first collective agreement with Plains Midstream near Windsor.

“The members of this unit identified problems in the workplace, organized a union, and bargained a solid collective agreement,” said John Dagnolo, Unifor Local 200 president. “They should be very proud of taking action to have a voice in their workplace.”

WINNIPEG—Unifor Local 681 will hold a rally at Manitoba Hydro Place as part of the second day of picket line action against the employer and join the leader of the opposition to call for a legislative committee to hear testimony on the impasse. 

“With record profits forecasted for the employer, we call on Premier Heather Stefanson to answer questions about why gas workers in the province are being denied the same wage increases awarded to other Crown workers,” said Gavin McGarrigle, Unifor Western Regional Director. 

Unifor Local 681 members at Manitoba Hydro began rotating strikes on June 17. Watch the rally and hear about what's at stake for these members who worked during the pandemic on the front lines of in-home service.

WINNIPEG—Premier Heather Stefanson’s grudge against Manitoba Hydro workers has resulted in legal strike action and customer service disruptions, says Unifor.

WINNIPEG—Unifor Local 681 will hold a rally at Manitoba Hydro Place to launch legal strike action on June 17, 2022. 

“Premier Heather Stefanson is repeating the mistakes of Brian Pallister. The disrespect her government has shown for hard-working Manitoba Hydro workers is at the heart of this job action,” said Gavin McGarrigle, Unifor Western Regional Director. “Our strike is a last resort, but we’re prepared to stand up for the fair contract our members have earned.”

What:    Rally for Manitoba Hydro workers

CAMBRIDGE—Unifor Local 999 members working in storage, transmission, and operations (STO) at Enbridge Gas have ratified a new collective agreement.

“Our members were united and showed great determination in their efforts to reach a fair and just collective agreement,” said Jeff Gray, President of Local 999.

The contract’s ratification puts an end to the 20-day strike and restores the safe and reliable operation of high pressure natural gas storage and transmission in the region, says Unifor.

TORONTO—Inadequate compensation from a profitable employer drove Unifor Local 999 members to begin a legal strike at 12:01 a.m. on May 25, 2022.

“We refuse to let inflation eat into our wages,” said Jeff Gray, President of Local 999. “We are ready to negotiate a resolution but it must ensure our wages are protected.”