The labor dispute involving 34,000 striking public sector workers in British Columbia is moving towards mediation, announced the B.C. General Employees’ Union (BCGEU) president, Paul Finch. The union accepted the government’s request for mediation to pursue a fair agreement for its members, emphasizing the significance of the services provided by their members daily.
Mediation is set to commence promptly, while workers will maintain picket lines across the province throughout the process. Any agreement resulting from the mediation will be subject to a vote by the union members, who consist of approximately 34,000 individuals in the bargaining unit, with around 25,000 actively participating in the strike.
The BCGEU is advocating for a four percent annual wage increase over two years. The strike, which commenced on September 2, has led to picketing at various government offices and service sites, impacting businesses such as restaurants and bars due to disruptions in the provincial liquor distribution network.
As tensions persist over wage negotiations for a new two-year deal, the union has seen a rise in the number of members joining the strike. Notably, all Service B.C. locations are currently behind pickets, although essential services are being maintained with possible delays. Additionally, the Professional Employees Association has reported its engineers, geoscientists, and mining inspectors participating in the strike.
Acknowledging the impact on the public, businesses, and employees, the government expressed its commitment to finding a fair resolution. Premier David Eby expressed optimism for a swift resolution through the ongoing mediation process. Eby refrained from commenting further on the mediation, emphasizing the need for constructive discussions to swiftly conclude the dispute.