Last week, Bell initiated yet another downsizing and VRTIP from the TEAM membership. This time, Bell is looking to cut 44 TEAM positions across eleven VP Groups. This downsizing marks the 11th round of job cuts that Bell has initiated from TEAM in the seven years since taking over MTS in 2017 (the EVRTIP issued in March 2020 was subsequently put on hold and cancelled). During this time, Bell has cut over 260 TEAM positions through the VRTIP and layoff process, and the TEAM membership has decreased in size by 36%.
The Technology Services VP Group is targeted most heavily in this latest VRTIP, with 19 IT positions, or 22% of remaining positions in this area, slated to go. This is a massive hit to members working in Technology Services, after nearly a third of IT positions were lost through the 2022 downsizing and EVRTIP offering.
While we are grateful that TEAM members leaving as a result of these downsizings (many are senior, long-serving employees) have the benefit of doing so and receiving a departure or severance payment under the negotiated VRTIP and layoff provisions in our collective agreement, TEAM is gravely concerned about the impacts of Bell’s constant rounds of job reductions on remaining TEAM members, the future of highly-skilled, well paid telecommunications work in Manitoba, and our local economy.
We understand that members in the workplace received an email from Bell that includes a link to the voluntary departure package (VRTIP). The package contains a list of the targeted jobs and the number of corresponding reductions that Bell is seeking. Members who are not in one of the targeted positions may also apply for a departure package; however, the decision to approve or deny an application rests solely with Bell. The deadline to apply is 4:00 p.m. on March 22, 2024.
Knowing the number and location of VRTIP applicants will assist TEAM in any discussions we may have with Bell regarding redeployments and saving someone from being laid off. We are therefore asking for your help in tracking and monitoring the progress of the voluntary departure program:
- Members in targeted positions: If you are in a targeted position, please click here and provide your name, position title, and if you intend to apply for the VRTIP or not, or if you are currently undecided.
- Members not in targeted positions: If you are not in a targeted position, but intend to apply for the VRTIP, please click here and provide your name, position title, and work group/area, including VP, if known.
Should you wish to have a confidential discussion about your options, please email or call the TEAM office.