The ongoing strike by public sector workers in British Columbia will see more liquor and cannabis stores, along with government offices, closed on Friday as the labor dispute enters its fifth week.
After unsuccessful negotiations on Monday, the BC General Employees’ Union (BCGEU) has announced an escalation of the strike, adding nearly 900 workers from 20 retail stores and employees from various government ministries including Environment and Parks, Children and Family Development, Energy and Climate Solutions, and Water, Land and Resource Stewardship.
Union President Paul Finch emphasized the importance of fair wages for public service workers in light of the rising cost of living, urging the government to return to the negotiation table with a more substantial offer to prevent further escalation of job actions.
Premier David Eby defended the province’s current offer, citing financial constraints but expressing a willingness to engage in discussions to resolve the labor dispute.
The union is advocating for an 8.25% wage increase over two years to address concerns related to the cost of living and other key issues.
The strike has now grown to include over 17,000 workers participating in job actions, with thousands of union members and supporters rallying in downtown Vancouver earlier in the week.