CUPE Manitoba applauds key initiatives in Manitoba Net Zero Plan

CUPE Manitoba and CUPE 998, representing workers in Manitoba’s energy sector applaud today’s plan for Manitoba to reach net zero emissions.

The report makes important progress on important initiatives.

“It is refreshing to finally have a government that believes our province’s future is tied to addressing climate change,” said Gina McKay, President of CUPE Manitoba. “The government’s plan also supports energy sector workers in the transition to net zero.”

The plan commits to public investments in charging infrastructure through Manitoba Hydro – a model pioneered by Hydro-Quebec which has been enormously successful in that province.

“Publicly owned electric vehicle charging infrastructure allows us to scale up building this technology into our economy as the world continues to shift towards electric vehicles,” said Michelle Bergen, President of CUPE 998 representing workers at Manitoba Hydro. “With Manitoba Hydro at the helm, we are positioning ourselves to be a leader in clean energy in transportation, job creation in the energy sector, while also reducing costs for Manitobans”.

In addition, CUPE commends the Manitoba government for their plan to use crown corporations to build geothermal heating networks, which will scale up geothermal heating usage in Manitoba and reduce our reliance on natural gas. This will reduce Manitoba’s carbon footprint, while saving Manitobans money.

CUPE members are also supportive of the multiple energy efficiency and affordability measures in the plan.

“This is a plan that will create good jobs for Manitoba families, which will also reduce costs and make life more affordable in Manitobans”

CUPE Manitoba is the largest Union in the province, representing over 40,000 members in more than 80 different union locals. CUPE members provide support services in health care, personal care homes, school divisions, municipal services, social services, childcare centres, public utilities, and family emergency services. CUPE Manitoba is at the forefront of defending and expanding public services in our province.