MGEU president Kyle Ross (MGEU / HANDOUT)
Métis and Michif Child and Family Services agencies have issued 65 layoff notices to staff responsible for caring for at-risk children and youth across Manitoba.
That’s according to the Manitoba Government and General Employees’ Union (MGEU), which is calling the move “reckless,” warning that it threatens the safety of vulnerable children.
According to MGEU president Kyle Ross, the layoffs — 44 at Métis CFS and 21 at Michif CFS — come despite the agencies receiving millions in increased funding for the upcoming year.
“Without a fair wage increase, it will be hard to retain and attract professionals to these jobs — significantly raising the potential for staffing shortages,” said Ross. “Not enough staff means children and families will be at risk and may not get the care they need.”
He accused the employers of using the layoffs as a bargaining tactic to pressure workers into accepting lower wages, as contract negotiations remain unresolved since January 31, 2023.
