Manitoba Public Insurance (MPI) has reached a tentative agreement with the union representing its 1,700 striking employees.
A news release from the Manitoba Government and General Employees’ Union (MGEU) said its members will be informed of the terms of the new deal during an online meeting today, with voting set to occur between noon and 6 pm.
Key highlights of the tentative agreement include a total wage increase of 13% over four years, as well as a one-time, lump-sum signing bonus of $1,800 for full-time employees.
Part-time employees will also receive a pro-rated bonus based on their working hours, according to the union.
Additionally, striking workers are set to receive two weeks of pay to make up for stalled negotiations as the province transitioned to a new government.
MGEU president Kyle Ross said MPI’s latest offer is one “we are proud to recommend to our members.”
“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,” Ross said.
The striking MPI employees recently voted to reject an earlier offer that promised a 12.2% wage increase over four years.
Manitoba’s NDP government replaced most of MPI’s board members just two days after it was sworn in. The government has mandated the new board to resolve the labor dispute without binding arbitration.
Manitoba premier Wab Kinew had offered his support to striking MPI employees as he spoke at a news conference after the NDP won the provincial elections.
“We are on the side of workers,” he said.
What are your thoughts on this story? Feel free to comment below.
