Lack of movement on key issues pushes BCGEU members at BC Safety Authority to strike vote

BCGEU/NUPGE members at B.C. Safety Authority take strike vote to show support for bargaininig.

Vancouver (15 May 2012) - The bargaining committee for members of the B.C. Government and Service Employees Union (BCGEU/NUPGE) says lack of progress at the table is behind its call for a strike vote.

Negotiations began with the BC Safety Authority in January 2012 for a new collective agreement.

Members identified key issues of a fair and reasonable wage increase, better language for promoting and filling positions and some enhancements to benefits and allowances. The bargaining committee brought forward fair and reasonable proposals to the negotiating table and have resolved some non-monetary issues, including streamlining the grievance procedure,  adding no bullying to the harassment language and the introduction of a joint Rehabilitation Committee process.

In response to the union's monetary package, tabled in early March, the employer presented a Framework for Settlement which provided 1% and 1.5% wage increases and little more in any other area.

After consulting with the membership, the committee returned to the table to reaffirm the union's position, the employer advised they were unwilling to significantly improve their offer.

Additionally, the employer has no interest in changing their current hiring practices and they continue to demand limitations on vacation scheduling.

Talks broke off on May 8 and a strike vote is now taking place. The bargaining committee is recommending a strong strike vote to show the strength of committment behind the bargaining proposals at the table.

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