Manitoba Tories oppose 'forced unionization'

Manitoba Opposition Leader Brian Pallister says he would open up labour agreements on government projects if he was premier.

Pallister is denouncing master labour agreements on new projects for Manitoba Hydro, the Red River Floodway Authority and other agencies.

He says the agreements will add an estimated $3 billion in costs to the $22 billion in work planned over the next decade.

The master labour deals set wages and other benefits for all workers on a project and require workers to pay union dues in exchange.

Pallister says that amounts to "forced unionization" and discourages some businesses from bidding for contracts.

The Manitoba Federation of Labour says the agreements ensure workers are treated fairly and ensure projects are completed on time by reducing the odds of work stoppages.