Media reports surfaced today indicating that the pay for government employees could be held up due to procedural delays at the Manitoba Legislature.

Yesterday, the Pallister government was unable to pass an interim supply bill. This legislation is needed to ensure the government has money in its bank account to pay government employees and keep programs running. 

“I spoke with Finance Minister Scott Fielding this morning and shared with him how concerned we are about this situation,” said MGEU President Michelle Gawronsky.  “There are mortgages to pay, groceries to purchase – hard working government employees simply can’t go without a paycheque.”

The legislature is on spring break and resumes April 1. The Minister said his government will try to pass the bill on that day and move forward.  However, he said there are no guarantees the bill will pass. 

“Have we entered into American style politics?” questioned Gawronsky.  “The paycheques of government employees should not be some political football being kicked around in the legislature. It’s time for MLAs to work together.” 

According to Civil Service Commissioner, Charlene Paquin, the situation will not impact the next pay period, so employees should expect to receive their next pay, as scheduled, on March 29, 2019.