Attention: GVRDEU Members

Recent media coverage has brought the public’s attention regarding the Union’s concerns to the sharp increase in Metro Vancouver’s exempt staffing levels. Global TV’s Catherine Urquhart’s story is here: https://ca.news.yahoo.com/contract-talks-between-metro-vancouver-002536126.htm

From 2019 to the end of 2024, exempt salaries have risen by 69%, now exceeding $113 million, alongside a 54% increase in exempt positions. This level of growth raises serious concerns. Notably, Tarynne Summers, Deputy General Manager of HR Services and head of the Employer’s Bargaining Committee, received a 65.57% salary increase over that same period.

At the same time, GVRDEU members have seen no comparable increases in staffing levels or wages. This growing imbalance is directly impacting our ability to deliver the critical services the public expects from Metro Vancouver. The Union has repeatedly raised concerns about ongoing inequities across classifications and the risks they pose to operations, infrastructure, and worker safety, both before and throughout bargaining. This is something that cannot be unheeded or brushed aside!

On Thursday, the Employer advised that, in the event of job action, corporate vehicles must be returned to Employer property at the end of each shift and cannot be used for commuting. Shortly after, bargaining dates were proposed by the Employer for April 8 and 13.

The Union reaffirmed  it has been ready to resume negotiations in securing a fair agreement and will make itself available on the proposed dates. With a 97.8% strike mandate, your bargaining committee is returning to the table with a clear message, that our members are united and expect real movement!

The Union is also scheduled to attend BC Labour Relations Board hearings on April 2 and 9 regarding the Employer’s essential services application. This is an important issue that needs to be completed, as no possible strike or lockout can occur until the essential services order is finalized and 72-hours’ notice given by either party.

We have now been working under an expired agreement for over 15 months, with more than 7 months of bargaining producing insufficient progress on our key priorities. Meanwhile, management staffing and compensation continue to grow.

Your bargaining committee remains focused on securing a fair and respectful agreement that reflects the essential work you perform every day across the Metro Vancouver Regional District.

In solidarity,

GVRDEU Bargaining Committee