As the BC General Employees’ Union (BCGEU) strike continues to escalate, reducing services for many British Columbians, the union and Province have announced they will enter into a non-binding mediation process.
The appointed mediators will be Vince Ready and Amanda Rogers, who will take charge of facilitating the process.
According to BCGEU, this decision follows a request from the government after seven weeks of province-wide strike action by more than 25,000 public service workers.
“Public service workers have been steadfast and united in their call for a fair deal,” said BCGEU President Paul Finch.
“Their solidarity and determination have brought government back to the table. Mediation represents a next step toward resolving this dispute in a way that respects the vital work our members do every day.”
The union says the mediation process will begin as soon as possible.
While this process gets underway, BCGEU says its members will maintain their picket lines in order to demonstrate continued resolve.
One key point in this process is that the mediation led by Rogers and Ready will be non-binding, meaning any tentative agreement will go to union members for a vote before it is finalized.
“Public service is at the heart of who these members are, and they do not take the decision to strike lightly, but they cannot afford to keep falling behind financially,” said Finch.
“More than half of BCGEU public service workers have considered leaving their jobs because of affordability concerns. Our goal remains clear as we enter mediation.”
The union added that they are committed to exploring every option to achieve a fair and respectful agreement.
The BCGEU will continue to provide updates as mediation progresses.
The union is seeking a 4% general wage increase per year for two years to keep up with rising costs and reflect the value of public service work.
However, the Province’s current offer has remained at 2% per year for two years, which BCGEU says is below inflation and out of step with the cost of living.
