The provincial government and the B.C. General Employees’ Union (BCGEU) are entering into mediation during the eighth week of escalating job action.
Long-time mediator Vince Ready and Amanda Rogers have been tasked with the job, according to an information bulletin from the Finance Ministry on Friday (Oct. 17).
“The strike is having an impact on the public, businesses and employees, and government is committed to reaching a fair agreement that works for everyone,” reads the statement from the provincial government.
It adds that “out of respect for the mediation process, government will not be releasing any further details at this time.”
The BCGEU also issued a statement, saying picketing will continue during the mediation process. Union President Paul Finch hailed the effort of members to get a better deal.
“Their solidarity and determination have brought government back to the table,” Finch said in a news release. “Mediation represents a next step toward resolving this dispute in a way that respects the vital work our members do every day.”
Any deal reached through mediation is non-binding until approved by a vote of union members, according to the BCGEU statement.
Approximately 25,000 workers in the BCGEU’s public service bargaining unit are on strike after more than seven weeks of escalating job action. The entire unit is 34,000 workers, but about 5,000 are deemed essential and cannot strike.
The Professional Employees’ Association is also on strike and has escalated job action to a full walkout of all 1,600 members as of Thursday.