TEAM is deeply disappointed and frustrated that Bell is cutting jobs again – and so soon after cancelling the previously planned reductions from our bargaining unit announced in January.
We understand this round of cuts will impact employees across the country, including TEAM members and other Manitoba employees.
Manitoba continues to lose skilled, valuable jobs and repeated reductions like these take a real human toll – harming those who are forced to leave and placing increasing pressure on those who remain. This pattern strains our members, risks service quality, undermines well-being, and raises serious concerns about long-term operational sustainability.
Members in targeted positions will have been notified by their leaders – a full listing can be found in the VSP portal (link available in the VSP email sent from Gabriel Coutu, VP Labour Relations).
The revised Article 27 provides greater clarity around who is targeted for layoff. Vacancies in non-targeted positions that arise from the VSP must be made available to members identified for layoff through the posting process if the Company opts to refill the position. In addition, where a member in a non-targeted position applies for the VSP, the Company is required to accept the application unless it cannot be refilled by members targeted for layoff.
For members who are ready to retire or depart the Company voluntarily, the VSP provides a great opportunity to leave with a departing incentive.
For members whose positions are targeted and who are not yet ready to leave Bell, TEAM urges caution before applying for the VSP, as the payout amounts are the same (dependent on category) whether you apply for the VSP or are laid off. Moreover, TEAM members who are laid off retain access to recall rights and career transition support.
TEAM strongly recommends that members notified by Bell Labour Relations that they are at risk of layoff take proactive steps towards securing continued employment within Bell – this includes actively searching for vacant positions across the organization, reaching out to managers and directors in other departments and leveraging personal networks and contacts to inquire about potential openings/opportunities. Members are encouraged to apply for any suitable opportunities within Bell, regardless of the location(s) listed on the posting – we have seen members successfully obtain positions that did not include Manitoba work locations on the posting, demonstrating that flexibility can be provided in some cases.
Every member’s situation is different – years of service, age, financial considerations, recall prospects, and personal circumstances all influence the decision-making process . We encourage members to contact TEAM if they are uncertain, before making any decisions, to receive individualized advice and support.
Bell resources available for our members:
- For questions related to pension, savings, and benefits, please call the Benefits Administrator at 1 888 391-0005 and select option 3.
- For any questions related to the offer, please submit your question through Ask HR.
- For any personal assistance, please utilize the EFAP program.
If you require advice or have questions, please contact TEAM.