Dear Kyle Ross,

Saskatchewan Government and General Employees’ Union (SGEU) representing 20,000 workers in Saskatchewan, stands in solidarity with the Manitoba Government and General Employees’ Union (MGEU) regarding your strike action against Manitoba Liquor & Lotteries (MBLL).

We applaud your strike notice given MBLL’s refusal to negotiate a fair deal for wage increases. It’s no secret that workers in Manitoba and Saskatchewan are struggling to make ends meet. Premier Stefanson’s proposal of 2.0 per cent wage increase over 4 years falls short of what is needed to keep up with the soaring cost of living and it falls far short of what is needed to help retain workers. To add insult to injury, your Premier and her cabinet are taking 3.3 per cent, 3.6 per cent and 3.6 per cent over 3 years. We agree this is completely unacceptable for the workers of Manitoba.

As you know, the Government of Saskatchewan recently privatized our province's remaining public liquor stores. The 400 SGEU members who worked in Saskatchewan public liquor stores across the province were professional and knowledgeable, and many dedicated their careers to working in the public service at these stores. These stores provided living wages and benefits which SGEU members in turn use to support their families and the communities they live in.

We understand your frustrations and concerns. On behalf of SGEU’s 20,000 members, with the interests of all workers at heart, I hope the Manitoba Liquor & Lotteries and the Government of Manitoba will stop ignoring the needs of Manitobans and increase wages for everyone.

SGEU would like to contribute $2,000 to support your efforts financially. You can count on SGEU’s solidarity. We wish your executive, bargaining committee and membership strength during this challenging time.

Sincerely,

Tracey Sauer (she/her)
President, SGEU