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Negotiations began in October and the bargaining committee worked diligently and productively with PSEA and employer representatives to achieve these agreements.
Vancouver (20 Dec. 2012) — The B.C. Government and Service Employees' Union (BCGEU/NUPGE) have reached a tentative agreement with the Post Secondary Employer's Association (PSEA), which bargains on behalf of the colleges (Camosun College, Selkirk College, Okanagan College, Northwest Community College, Northern Lights College).
Negotiations began in October and the bargaining committee worked diligently and productively with PSEA and employer representatives to achieve these agreements.
The term of the agreement is for two years, expiring on March 31, 2014.
BCGEU President Darryl Walker states, "The committee negotiated a four per cent wage hike over the term of the agreement, after a two year wage freeze. I commend the bargaining committee members for their dedication, long hours and hard work to achieve the tentative agreement."
Highlights of the tentative agreement are:
- provincial salary scale increased by four per cent over two years (includes increases to secondary scales, faculty administrative and local stipends);
- expedited arbitration hearing and mediation process;
- joint development of education and employee training (re respectful working environment); and
- joint review of bargaining structure and process.
The bargaining committee is recommending members vote 'yes' to accept the deal, which includes the common and local agreements.
'It's important that members attend the ratification meetings to get a detailed explanation of the agreement and have their questions answered", says Cam McRobb, BCGEU bargaining committee Chairperson.
A complete package of proposed changes to the common and local agreements will be provided at the membership ratification meetings, or can be obtained from your bargaining unit Chairperson.
Local meetings will be scheduled in early January, 2013 with exact dates and locations to be announced.
NUPGE
The National Union of Public and General Employees (NUPGE) is one of Canada's largest labour organizations with over 340,000 members. Our mission is to improve the lives of working families and to build a stronger Canada by ensuring our common wealth is used for the common good. NUPGE