Dear Members,
We are providing an update following our last correspondence on August 5th.
Late on Thursday, August 6th, the Union was advised through our counsel that Metro Vancouver was seeking permission from the BC Minister of Labour to submit an application for a “last offer vote.” The Employer was required to seek permission before applying, as the Union had already commenced strike action.
Yesterday afternoon (August 11th), our counsel informed us that the Employer had been advised that the Minister of Labour declined Metro Vancouver’s request.
Your Bargaining Committee remains ready to return to the bargaining table at any time when the Employer is prepared to provide its counter to the Union’s last proposal, submitted on July 22nd. For this to occur, the Employer needs to negotiate with the Union on key member priorities, including improvements to health and safety, contracting out, and wage adjustments that are urgently needed to address recruitment and retention issues.
The Union remains committed to reaching a collective agreement and will continue with job action to encourage Metro Vancouver to return to the table and make a genuine effort to conclude negotiations. The appointed mediator remains available if mediation would assist the parties in reaching a tentative agreement.
We will update the membership as soon as possible if there is any change in the Employer’s position, and we thank members for their assistance in securing the contract our members deserve.
In solidarity,
GVRDEU Bargaining Committee
