Manitoba Liquor Workers To Proceed With Additional Strike Action
In a significant development impacting Manitoba’s liquor industry, hundreds of Manitoba Liquor & Lotteries Corp. (MLL) workers are gearing up for a multi-day job action this week. The workers, represented by the Manitoba Government and General Employees’ Union (MGEU), have been engaged in contract negotiations with the employer for a prolonged period. With the talks at a standstill, the employees are determined to take action to voice their concerns and demands. Follow Our website TheGossipsWorld Media for the latest updates!!!!!
Liquor Mart Workers Take to the Picket Lines
As the sun rises on Wednesday and Thursday, Liquor Mart staff from all corners of the province will march to the picket lines. The protest aims to amplify the union’s message and draw attention to their
grievances. Additionally, workers at MLL’s liquor distribution site in Winnipeg will be joining the strike on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, further intensifying the impact on operations.
Pivotal July 19 Strike
On July 19, more than 1,400 liquor workers and MGEU members held a single-day strike, resulting in the shutdown of most Liquor Mart retail locations across the province, except for six in Winnipeg and one in Brandon. These outlets were temporarily managed by company managers. Distribution center workers also joined the strike on July 19 and 20, disrupting the supply chain.
The Clash of Demands: Union vs. MLL
The crux of the issue lies in the divergent demands between the MGEU and MLL. The union is pressing for raises in line with those granted to Manitoba MLAs and Premier Heather Stefanson, starting at 3.3 percent
this year, followed by a further 3.6 percent increase in both 2024 and 2025. However, MLL has offered a wage increase of two percent per year over four years, with additional boosts for employees at the lower end of the pay scale to align with provincial minimum-wage increases.
Conciliator Recommended, Union Refuses
As tensions escalated, MLL suggested bringing in a conciliator to mediate and assist with the negotiations. Unfortunately, MGEU declined the offer, further entrenching the impasse. The Crown
corporation expressed concerns about the potential negative repercussions on various sectors, including the hospitality industry, summer festivals, and private liquor retailers who may not receive deliveries. Customer experience across the province could also be affected, with store closures or limited inventory.
Deriding the Wage Mandate
MGEU president Kyle Ross criticized the set wage mandate as “restrictive” and accused leadership of being “disingenuous and misleading” in their approach to negotiations. Ross boldly asserted that the provincial government, led by Heather Stefanson and her cabinet, plays a decisive role in the bargaining process, imposing wage mandates on employers across the public sector.
Government’s Stance: Neutral or Involved?
Government Services Minister James Teitsma clarified that the negotiations primarily involve MGEU and MLL, distancing the government from direct involvement. However, David Camfield, an associate
professor of labor studies at the University of Manitoba, questioned the government’s role as an “invisible third party.” Camfield contended that the provincial government subtly influences bargaining mandates for public-sector organizations, even though it is not the legal employer.
A Test of Resilience: Workers’ Perspective
The liquor workers’ discontent is not limited to mere wage demands; they feel unacknowledged for their perseverance during the pandemic and the heightened security risks they faced during earlier robberies.
With inflation soaring at eight percent last year, the two percent wage hikes offered do not adequately address their economic challenges, pushing them to take a stand for fair treatment and recognition.
Impact on Manitobans
As the standoff persists, there is growing concern about the potential impact on Manitobans. With Liquor Mart locations shuttered during the strike, customers face limited access to their favorite spirits, while
private liquor retailers might experience delivery disruptions. The hospitality industry and summer festivals could also bear the brunt of the labor dispute, creating uncertainty and inconvenience for all stakeholders.
A Call for Resolution
As the strike unfolds, both sides must remember that resolution lies in productive dialogue and understanding. Acknowledging the vital role that liquor workers play in the province’s economy and
society is crucial. By recognizing their contributions and valuing their demands, a compromise can be reached that ensures a sustainable and harmonious future for the Manitoba liquor industry.
