Industry Associations in B.C. Urge Govt Action Amid Public Servants Strike
Representatives from various sectors including hospitality, wine, beer, and liquor in British Columbia are rallying for support from the provincial government to navigate through the ongoing public servants strike.
Scheduled to address the media in Vancouver on Friday morning, key figures from Wine Growers British Columbia (WGBC), BC Restaurant and Foodservices Association (BCRFA), Import Vintners and Spirits Association (IVSA), Restaurants Canada, BC Craft Brewers Guild, and Alliance of Beverage Licensees (ABLE BC) will unveil findings from a recent provincewide survey. They will also advocate for immediate emergency measures to safeguard businesses impacted by the strike.
The industry groups have labeled the job action by the BC General Employees’ Union as “devastating.”
The strike, which commenced with union members at BC Liquor and Cannabis distribution centers on Sept. 12 and later expanded to all warehouses and head offices by Sept. 22, has put a significant strain on the affected businesses.
Premier David Eby acknowledged the challenges faced not only by the restaurant sector but also by British Columbians seeking government services during an unrelated news briefing. He expressed hopes for a swift resolution to the strike impasse.
Finance Minister Brenda Bailey, representing the government in the dispute, emphasized the need for a fair deal that ensures sustainable service delivery without overburdening costs.
With the strike now in its 45th day, approximately 25,000 union members across multiple ministries, Crown corporations, and agencies remain off duty.
Eby assured that post-strike, the supply disruptions faced by the restaurant industry and liquor/cannabis retailers would be addressed.
The industry representatives will convene at Donnellans Irish Pub on Granville Street at 10 a.m. to share their perspectives and demands.