Amid escalating job action by the BC General Employees’ Union (BCGEU), Premier David Eby has addressed the situation, emphasizing the government’s financial constraints.
During a speech in Surrey on Thursday morning, Premier Eby acknowledged the BCGEU’s past successful contract negotiations but stated that the current economic climate prevents the government from meeting the union’s demands.
Eby highlighted the fiscal challenges faced by the province and emphasized the need for collaboration between government workers and the government to reach a mutually beneficial agreement that respects taxpayers.
The Premier stressed that the province’s financial situation has changed since the last round of bargaining, making it unsustainable to increase wages significantly without burdening taxpayers.
Meanwhile, the BCGEU has expanded its picket lines across various locations, including downtown Vancouver, Surrey, Victoria, and Prince George. Union president Paul Finch criticized the government’s reluctance to offer fair wages, asserting that workers should not bear the brunt of cost-cutting measures.
Finch reiterated that the strike will persist until the government presents what the union deems a fair proposal. While acknowledging the need for fiscal responsibility, he emphasized that denying reasonable pay raises to civil servants is not the solution.
At present, there are no scheduled negotiations between the BCGEU’s bargaining committee and the government, leaving the future of the dispute uncertain.