The BC General Employees’ Union (BCGEU) has intensified its strike action on Friday morning by announcing that its members will no longer work overtime at four key liquor distribution sites in British Columbia.
These distribution centers in Burnaby, Delta, Richmond, and Kamloops play a crucial role in supplying beer, wine, and spirits to various liquor stores, bars, pubs, and restaurants across the province.
BCGEU President Paul Finch stated in a press release, “Public service workers should not bear the burden of the affordability crisis while the government relies on their hard work to achieve record liquor revenues. If the government fails to treat workers fairly, they cannot expect business to proceed as usual.”
This move marks an escalation in the ongoing job action, with the total number of participating workers exceeding 6,000 after just over a week since the strike began.
In addition to the overtime ban, the BCGEU has organized pickets at government offices and various locations in Victoria, Surrey, Prince George, Kamloops, and Kelowna as part of their demand for an 8.25% wage increase over two years, cost-of-living safeguards, and remote work privileges.
The union is at odds with the Ministry of Finance, which aims for a balanced agreement benefiting both employees and taxpayers. With face-to-face discussions halted since July, union leaders believe that escalating the strike will compel the government to resume negotiations.
Ian Tostensen, President of the BC Restaurant and Food Services Association, expressed concerns over the impact of the strike on the industry, emphasizing the potential disruption in the supply chain that could affect restaurants’ inventory levels.