B.C. public service workers continue strike action across multiple cities, demanding fair wages as talks with the provincial government stall.
Workers Demand Fair Compensation
Public service employees in British Columbia escalated strike action this week, calling for higher wages that reflect today’s cost of living. Members of the B.C. General Employees’ Union (BCGEU) and the Professional Employees Association (PEA) began walking picket lines on Tuesday, Sept. 2, and by Friday, Sept. 5, protests had spread to several cities.
Picket Lines Across the Province
Dozens of workers gathered outside the ICBC driver licensing office in Surrey on Friday, with signs reading “‘90s music, not ‘90s wages” and “I work 4 the province and I can’t afford to live in it.” Passing motorists honked in support as union members rallied for fair compensation. Other picket lines were set up in Prince George, Victoria, and downtown Vancouver, with more locations expected in the coming days.
Escalation of Job Action
The BCGEU announced on Sept. 5 that it was escalating job action, citing the provincial government’s Public Service Agency (PSA) for failing to return to the bargaining table. Union leaders said workers are prepared to continue striking until the government makes a “meaningful” wage proposal.
Essential Services Maintained
Under agreements between the government and unions, only certain workers are permitted to strike to ensure essential services remain available. While some employees have walked off the job, critical services such as public safety and health remain unaffected.
Scope of the Strike
The BCGEU represents approximately 34,000 provincial workers, including liquor store employees, wildfire fighters, and social workers. The PEA represents roughly 1,800 professionals such as geoscientists, engineers, and psychologists. This is the first major strike action since 2022, when only liquor distribution workers were able to walk off the job.
Union Position and Wage Proposal
Paul Finch, BCGEU president and chair of the Public Service Bargaining Committee, said the strike is necessary to secure fair pay for workers who deliver essential services. The unions are seeking a 4 per cent raise this year, followed by 4.25 per cent next year. By contrast, the provincial government has offered a total of 3.5 per cent over two years.
Government Response Pending
As of press time, Finance Minister Brenda Bailey had not responded to requests for comment. The unions have said strike action will continue until a fair deal is reached.
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