Two BC trade unions are willing to strike Tuesday

Public Service Employees in British Columbia Prepare for Strike Over Wages

Thousands of public service employees in British Columbia are gearing up for potential strike action as negotiations over wages have hit a standstill. The British Columbia General Employees’ Union (BCgeu) and the Professional Employees Association (PEA) have both issued strike notices, with over 35,000 employees ready to hit the picket lines.

Wage Demands

One of the major sticking points in the negotiations is wages. The BCgeu is seeking a 4% wage increase in the first year and 4.25% in the second year, along with a cost-of-living adjustment. The PEA is also pushing for fair wages that reflect the rising costs of living in British Columbia.

Remote Work and Contract Modernization

Aside from wage increases, the unions are also advocating for fair access to remote work, modernized contracts that value the work of their members, and limits on non-union managers. The PEA is specifically asking for professional coverage, protection against layoffs, and appropriate compensation for emergency work.

Government Response

Despite the unions’ demands, the provincial government has not budged on key issues raised by the employees. Melissa Moroz, the main negotiator for the PEA, expressed concerns that if negotiations do not progress, strike action may escalate.

Financial Challenges

The push for higher wages comes at a time when the province is facing significant financial challenges. British Columbia is projected to have a record deficit in the upcoming fiscal year, with a budget shortfall of around $10.9 billion.

As both sides remain at an impasse, the fate of public services in British Columbia hangs in the balance. The unions are prepared to take action to ensure that their members receive fair compensation for their work.

Original article source: BC Public sector Employees approve strike campaign, trade union gives a notice period of 72 hours