Congratulations to members of the B.C. public service on their recent negotiations.
collective agreement
Ratification meetings are being scheduled.
Community workers negotiate wage increases, retroactive pay and improvements to allowances and leaves.
“Under the current political and economic climate, all workers must stand together so their voice is heard and their rights are protected.” — Warren (Smokey) Thomas, OPSEU President
“When we talked to our members about the agreement, they had real concerns about a 'working short' premium that lets employers off the hook from addressing shortages, and plans to change pension and benefits governance and coverage." — Val Avery, HSABC President
"Community social services workers support some of B.C.'s most vulnerable citizens and we are so pleased to have reached agreements that provide enhanced support and compensation for this critical work." — Stephanie Smith, BCGEU/NUPGE President
The Council of Unions wants to send a message to the employers and government to take collective bargaining, and the Council's proposals seriously and work with the Council to get a deal done.
“When we first sat down at the table, the employer demanded a slate of concessions, including benefits cuts for most of the membership. But the bargaining team was able to remove every, single concession. This was a great victory.” — Julie Lenko, OPSEU Chair of the LHINs’ central bargaining team
MGEU/NUPGE members negotiated improvements to their wages and several leave provisions.
“Building cleaners are the lowest-paid workers in government, and they’re being forced to pay for the Sask. Party government’s mismanagement. Now, instead of listening to us, they’re trying to dig their way out of their mess at the expense of public employees’ jobs and rights.” — Bob Bymoen, SGEU President