MPI, Union reaches tentative agreement, may end strike: MGEU

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This article was published 01/11/2023 (1047 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

The Manitoba Government and General Employees’ Union says it has reached a tentative agreement with Manitoba Public Insurance following months of negotiation. In a statement issued on Tuesday evening, the MGEU said the development could bring an end to the strike that has disrupted services since August 28.

“We are pleased that our bargaining committee and MPI were able to reach an agreement that will help all members catch up and keep up with the rising cost of living,” MGEU president Kyle Ross stated. “This is an agreement that we are proud to recommend to our members.”

According to the statement, the union plans to inform its members about the agreement through an online meeting scheduled for Wednesday. It added that members will participate in a vote on the proposed deal between noon and 6 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 1.

“The outcome of this pivotal vote will be disclosed on Wednesday evening, initially to members and then to the media.”

Ross further stressed the significance of the agreement, noting that it acknowledges the dedicated service provided by their members to Manitobans. He added, “This agreement recognizes the hard work and excellent service that our members provide to Manitobans. We look forward to sharing the details with members. Now it’s up to them to decide.”

The news comes one day after workers at Manitoba’s Crown-owned auto insurance corporation rejected a contract offer and remained on strike. The 1,700 workers at Manitoba Public Insurance, represented by the Manitoba Government and General Employees’ Union, had “overwhelmingly” rejected the previous offer on Monday that included wage increases totalling more than 12 per cent over four years.

The union stated that the tentative agreement encompasses a comprehensive wage increase plan spanning four years, totalling 13 per cent, which includes 2022 -3 per cent; 2023 – 3 per cent; 2024- 3.4 per cent(Combining a General Wage Increase of 2.9 per cent with a Retention Adjustment increase of 0.5 per cent, and 2025 – 3.6 per cent (incorporating a general wage increase of 2.8 per cent with a retention adjustment increase of 0.8 per cent.)

“Notably, more than 60 per cent of MGEU members are poised to receive an additional 3.5 per cent wage increase over the contract’s duration, thanks to a new maximum increment step for each pay grade. Additionally, as a token of the agreement, a one-time, lump sum signing bonus of $1,800 per full-time employee (pro-rated for part-time employees) will be provided,” read the statement.

The union also noted that the agreement includes a provision for two weeks of recognition pay, acknowledging the unique circumstances under which the strike unfolded.

» The Brandon Sun, with files from The Canadian Press