BCGEU says some of its members will begin walking picket lines Tuesday

BCGEU Members to Begin Strike Action

VICTORIA — The British Columbia General Employees’ Union has announced that a portion of its members who work for the province’s public service will begin walking picket lines on Tuesday after the union issued a 72-hour notice of a strike last week.

The union’s president, Paul Finch, is set to join striking workers on a picket line in Victoria, with additional picket lines planned in Prince George and Surrey.

With approximately 34,000 members in various fields such as social services, health care, education, government liquor stores, prisons, courts, and public administration, the BCGEU is seeking improved wage and benefit packages through negotiations with the agency.

Following a breakdown in talks in July, a strike vote was called and 92.7 per cent of members voted in favor of job action if necessary. The union is seeking a four per cent general wage increase in the first year and 4.25 per cent in the second year, along with a cost-of-living adjustment.

Members of the Professional Employees Association, who also work for the Public Service Agency, have also voted in favor of job action and will issue simultaneous strike notice.

Acting deputy premier Mike Farnworth assured the public that essential services protecting the “health, safety, and welfare” of British Columbians would be maintained under existing agreements during the strike.

While details of the final offer to the union have not been disclosed, negotiations are ongoing as both parties work towards a resolution.

A spokesperson for the union has confirmed that more details about the strike action will be released on Tuesday, when the picket lines are expected to commence.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published on September 1, 2025.

The Canadian Press