The General Employees Union of British Columbia says the job action could begin as early as 2:46 p.m. Monday.
Almost 95 per cent of union members who work directly for the provincial government – including firefighters, social workers, sheriffs and correctional officers, and employees at BC liquor and cannabis stores and warehouses – voted to strike on June 22.
Stephanie Smith, BCGEU president and chair of the union’s public service bargaining committee, said members’ top priority was protecting wages amid high inflation.
“We’re not asking for anything out of the ordinary here,” he said.
“The minimum wage is now linked to inflation rates, as it always should be. And that is something that is afforded to politicians of all stripes in Victoria… Our members are simply asking for the same pay protection afforded to MLAs. “
The most recent collective agreement between the bargaining unit and the Public Service Agency, which negotiates on behalf of the province, expired on April 1. Negotiations began on 8 February and reached an impasse on 6 April.
The union and the government’s bargaining arm, the Civil Service Agency, met again in July, but talks broke down.
The two sides met earlier this week.
“Exploratory discussions were held and the bargaining committee unanimously decided that a return to the table would not be fruitful at this time,” the union said in a statement.
In a statement, the Civil Service Agency said it understands workers are concerned about the effects of inflation and is committed to reaching a fair deal.
Smith said job action can take many forms, such as banning overtime or rule-based action — where workers do exactly what’s in their job description — or picketing non-essential services.
The Public Service Agency said that while it was uncertain how the union might begin strike action, critical services would still be available. Before the work action, the Labor Relations Board set basic service levels, ensuring the continuation of critical services.
Smith said a lot can happen before Monday afternoon.
“Seventy-two hours is a long time,” Smith said. “We are always hopeful that the fact that we have issued the strike notice may force the employer to invite us back.”
