Title: Public Sector Workers Rally in Vancouver for New Contract

VANCOUVER — Hundreds of public sector workers in British Columbia marched through downtown Vancouver on Wednesday, demanding a new contract after negotiations with the government stalled earlier this week. The protest comes as the strike enters its fifth week, with union leaders expressing frustration over the lack of progress in talks.

Paul Finch, president of the BC General Employees' Union (BCGEU), addressed the crowd, stating that the union did not intend to provoke a conflict with the government. Instead, he emphasized that the union has been advocating for the needs and concerns of its members. "We told them of a reality of wildfire fighters making $28 an hour, forced to work endless overtime without seeing their families over the summer, just to make enough money to get by," Finch said, eliciting boos from the audience.

Negotiators from the BCGEU returned to the bargaining table on Monday with hopes of reaching an agreement. However, Finch reported that discussions were short-lived, as the government presented a contract proposal that was largely unchanged from a previous offer. He noted that the B.C. legislature is scheduled to resume on October 6. Finch warned, "If they don’t want to come to the bargaining table, we’re going to bring the bargaining table to the legislature."

The union's strike fund remains robust, according to Finch. Approximately 15,000 of the union's 34,000 members are currently engaged in various forms of job action, including picketing and refusing overtime. Members from other unions, such as the Professional Employees Association, BC Nurses' Union, BC Teachers' Federation, and United Steelworkers, joined the demonstration to show solidarity.

Melissa Moroz, executive director of the Professional Employees Association, expressed her support for the movement. "It’s great to have the labour movement all together. This strike is bigger than any one of us. It’s not just about the people who are on strike. This strike is about a fight for public services across this province," she said. Moroz highlighted that the job action is centered on issues of fairness, respect, and dignity, not solely on wages.

Premier David Eby acknowledged the urgency of resolving the dispute, stating that both parties need to engage in meaningful negotiations. He described the government's offer of a five-percent wage increase over two years as a "good faith" proposal, which includes special consideration for lower-paid workers. Eby noted the fiscal constraints the province is facing, citing global economic challenges and rising inflation.

After the breakdown of talks on Monday, Finch indicated that negotiations would not resume until the government presents a more substantial offer. The BCGEU has countered the government's proposal with a request for an eight-percent wage increase over the same two-year period.

Annette Toth, president of the Movement of United Professionals, spoke at the rally, emphasizing the importance of public sector workers. "We are essential for the success of this province," she said, receiving cheers from the crowd. Toth urged the government to listen to the concerns of workers, stating, "They’re not listening."

The ongoing strike reflects broader issues of worker compensation and public service funding in British Columbia, as union members continue to advocate for their rights and livelihoods.