The union representing outside workers in Metro Vancouver has announced a significant escalation in their job action starting this Friday, with a looming possibility of a full-scale, indefinite strike if a negotiated settlement is not reached soon.
Jessie Medeiros, the president of the Greater Vancouver Regional District Employee Union (GVRDEU), revealed that three days of mediation with the Labour Relations Board (LRB) are scheduled to commence on Saturday.
Emphasizing the urgency of the situation, Medeiros highlighted that workers have been operating without a contract for the past 18 months and are now at a crucial juncture where a decision on a full-scale walkout might be inevitable.
“The clock is ticking. Our members are fed up, frustrated, and exhausted from the lack of attention to their pressing concerns regarding health and safety, outsourcing, and the recruitment of skilled labor by Metro Vancouver management,” stated Medeiros. “They are determined to strike for a fair new contract.”
In response, Metro Vancouver asserted that it maintains one of the most robust workplace health and safety records in British Columbia and is actively striving to diminish its dependence on external contractors and consultants.
The organization noted that it has proposed wage hikes exceeding 10% over a three-year period, in line with recent agreements, such as those with the Teamsters union.
Medeiros appealed to the mayors and council members on the Metro Vancouver board to intervene and prevent a strike, stressing that time is of the essence to avert a major disruption.
Meanwhile, the union has expanded its job actions from regional parks to include the head office, housing corporation, wastewater treatment facilities, and other operations within Metro Vancouver. While essential services will be maintained as required by the LRB, the majority of workers are prepared to participate in a potential full-scale strike.
Amidst the escalating tensions, Metro Vancouver has assured that contingency measures are in place to uphold essential services.