Union for Ten Ten Sinclair workers files grievance over pay

The sign for the non-profit program Ten Ten Sinclair on March 11, 2024. (Alexandra Holyk/CTV News Winnipeg)

The union representing workers at Ten Ten Sinclair has filed a grievance regarding back pay and signing bonuses not being paid.

Workers at the non-profit program agreed to a new six-year deal in March following a strike that lasted three weeks.

The Canadian Union of Public Employees Manitoba (CUPE) confirmed to CTV News a grievance was filed on July 12. They said Ten Ten Sinclair had 45 days from when the new collective agreement was ratified to implement the agreement.

"The grievance is because the employer (Ten Ten Sinclair) has not fulfilled those obligations with respect to back pay and the signing bonus," a spokesperson for CUPE said in an email to CTV News.

Speaking Thursday afternoon, Shannon McAteer, the health-care coordinator for CUPE, said this extra money could go a long way for the employees.

"These aren't individuals who are making $50 an hour. They're making just above a living wage, I would say," said McAteer.

She noted their new negotiated pay has also been delayed and won't come into effect until the back pay has been received.

If the grievance is unsuccessful, McAteer said next steps would involve arbitration and that may take time.

"We're hoping that filing the grievance will be enough to get it resolved and get the money paid."

In a statement, a Ten Ten Sinclair spokesperson said the company has started the funding request process and expects the disbursements to be issued "within the week."