The union representing 34,000 striking public sector workers in British Columbia has agreed to enter mediation to address a labor dispute that has disrupted service delivery in the province. B.C. General Employees’ Union (BCGEU) president Paul Finch expressed the union’s commitment to seeking a fair and respectful agreement for its members following a request from the government. Mediation is seen as a crucial step towards resolving the dispute while acknowledging the essential work performed by union members daily.
Despite the initiation of mediation, workers will continue picketing throughout the province. The outcome of the mediation will be non-binding, necessitating a vote by union members to finalize any tentative agreement. Approximately 34,000 members are part of the bargaining unit, with around 25,000 actively participating in the strike.
The BCGEU is advocating for a four percent general wage increase annually for two years. The strike, which commenced on September 2, has led to picketing at various government offices and service locations. The ongoing disagreement over wage adjustments for a new two-year deal has prompted the union to escalate the number of members participating in job actions.
Notably, Service B.C. locations have been affected by pickets, although essential services will still be provided with possible delays. The Professional Employees Association has also joined the strike, with engineers, geoscientists, and mining inspectors participating in picket lines. The impact of the strike on the public, businesses, and employees has prompted the government to emphasize its commitment to achieving a fair resolution beneficial to all parties.
Premier David Eby expressed optimism for a swift resolution through the mediation process. He highlighted the extended duration of the strike and emphasized the importance of allowing the mediation discussions to progress for a quick resolution. Eby refrained from providing further details on the mediation, emphasizing the need to allow the involved parties to engage in constructive conversations to bring the labor dispute to a prompt conclusion.