More than 40 Manitoba Hydro linemen headed to Toronto over the holidays to help restore power after the recent ice storm. More than 100,000 Toronto area customers remained without electricity on Christmas Eve.

“We commend these members of IBEW Local 2034 for coming to the aid of Canadians in need,” said Manitoba Federation of Labour President Kevin Rebeck. “That’s what the labour movement is all about – solidarity and mutual support.”

The Manitoba linemen came home on Tuesday, just in time to spend New Year’s Eve with friends and family.

“These dedicated people sacrificed time with their family and friends over the holiday season,” said IBEW 2034 Business Manager Mike Velie. “We are very proud of them and their dedication to public service.”

Read more in the Winnipeg Free Press.