Public Service Workers in British Columbia Expand Strikes Over New Contract
The B.C. General Employees’ Union has escalated their strike efforts by adding 48 additional work sites to their picket list. A total of 2,600 workers are now participating in strike action across various sectors.
Among the newly targeted locations are 18 provincial liquor and cannabis retail stores, along with approximately 30 B.C. offices responsible for natural resources and land-use permits.
The union reports that out of its 34,000 members, about 25,000 public service workers are currently engaged in job actions to push for a more favorable contract.
Recent negotiations last week failed to reach an agreement between the union and the government. Workers are advocating for higher wages to combat rising living costs, while the government is navigating fiscal constraints in search of a fair resolution.
Finance Minister Brenda Bailey emphasized the need for a balanced deal that considers the interests of both workers and taxpayers, especially in light of the province’s projected record deficit of $11.6 billion.