Voting begins for a strike that could leave Manitoba dry

It could be a dry Christmas in Manitoba.

This week the Manitoba Government Employees Union, which represents more than 800 workers at provincial liquor marts, overwhelmingly rejected a tentative agreement with Manitoba Liquor and Lotteries.

Both sides are working on a new contract for clerks who make just over $13 an hour.

"Certainly the members are not looking for some huge gains but they are looking for some minor gains," said MGEU president Michelle Gawronsky.

"It's a very modest wage increase, I can tell you that the starting wage for most of the clerks is $13 something an hour, so it's not huge money they're making."

An improved benefits package is also something the union is after.

Gawronsky said the vast majority of union members rejected the MLCC's last offer.

"Ninety-eight per cent of the membership who came out said, 'no, absolutely not."

Union members began a strike vote Thursday which will continue to December 2. Results of the vote are expected December 3. 

A strike could happen soon after that, which could leave Manitobans dry over the holiday season.

The union represents head office, retail and distribution centre employees.

The MGEU said there was a modest wage increase proposed over four years, but employees would have to give up several provisions. Employees don't want to budge.

Stocking up

With Christmas only a few weeks away, and the Grey Cup this weekend, Joe Pelland is one Winnipegger stocking up in the event of a strike.

"Yeah we are short on wines. We might have to make a supply run out to our local liquor store," he said.

Larry Konotopetz echoed Pelland's statement.

"It's pretty rushed during the holidays," said Konotopetz. "We usually stock up before the beginning of December."

Local beer vendor Bruce Stuhlmueller said he is expecting to have some of his inventory cleared out during Grey Cup celebrations this weekend.

"This weekend we will probably clear out rack stock," said Stuhlmueller. "I'll be reordering next week again, bringing in pallets."

Stuhlmueller also anticipating traffic to increase in his store due to the looming strike and said a strike would be good for his business.

"We'd definitely be happy if there is a strike there. If they're not moving beer, then it's definitely going to help us."

Union representatives have said striking is the last thing they want to do and is hopeful a deal can be reached by Wednesday night.