VicPD is warning commuters to expect major traffic disruptions downtown on Monday as thousands of unionized BC public service workers will march through downtown Victoria before a demonstration on the lawns of the BC Legislature.
The rally, organized by the BC General Employees’ Union (BCGEU) which is epected to draw nearly 10,000 people, coincides with the start of the fall legislative session. This event represents a step up in the union’s province-wide strike, which is now in its sixth week.
The “Fund the Frontlines” march will begin at Centennial Square at 11 a.m., travelling down Blanshard Street before concluding with a noon rally on the Legislature lawn.
BCGEU President Paul Finch will lead the march with members of the Public Service Bargaining Committee and other labor leaders. Thousands of striking workers and supporters are expected to attend, including staff from ministries like Environment and Parks, Children and Family Development, and Energy and Climate Solutions.
VicPD says they will use temporary closed-circuit television (CCTV) during the demonstration to monitor safety. They also urge the public to plan alternate routes.
“We recognize everyone’s right to freedom of expression and lawful assembly,” VicPD said in a statement. “However, participants are reminded that it is inherently unsafe to march on open streets, and that they do so at their own risk.”
The department stated that officers will be present to “preserve the peace and maintain public safety for all.” They emphasized that they “police behaviour, not beliefs.” Participants and observers should review VicPD’s Safe and Peaceful Demonstration Guide.
BCGEU says nearly 900 additional workers from 22 worksites have joined the picket lines, bringing the total to more than 17,000 public service employees now off the job across the province.
“This escalation includes over 20 more BC Liquor Stores and BC Cannabis Stores,” the union said, adding that it represents workers from ministries across key sectors.
Union president Paul Finch said members have shown incredible strength and determination. He also noted that pressure is increasing on the provincial government to return to negotiations.
“Public service workers deserve wages that keep up with the cost of living,” Finch said. “The government must return to the table now with a serious offer or job action will escalate further. We are not backing down.”
Negotiations between the BCGEU and the province collapsed again last week, with Finch saying the government’s latest proposal offered “no meaningful improvement” over previous offers.
The union wants a 4% wage increase each year for two years. The province has offered 2% per year, with specific adjustments that the government claims add up to about five percent over two years.
Premier David Eby defended the offer, saying it aims to balance “the valuable work of public servants and the fiscal reality the province faces.”
VicPD advises drivers to avoid downtown Victoria on Monday morning and early afternoon if they can. Traffic will be heavily affected along Blanshard Street, Government Street, Belleville Street, and nearby areas.
The march starts at 11 a.m., followed by a rally at 12 p.m. on the Legislature lawn.
Police say major delays are expected to last until at least mid-afternoon.
