Title: Strike in British Columbia Expands to 26,000 Workers

Two unions in British Columbia have intensified their job action, now involving approximately 26,000 public service workers across 14 ministries and provincial Crown corporations. The Professional Employees Association, which represents professionals such as engineers, foresters, and geoscientists, reports that over 1,000 of its members from various ministries, including health, mining, transportation, resource stewardship, and the attorney general's office, are participating in the strike.

This escalation follows the Professional Employees Association's collaboration with the BC General Employees' Union, which has also ramped up its job action. The BCGEU now includes about 25,000 public service workers across 475 work sites. According to the union, 11 ministries and several Crown corporations are now fully affected by the strike. These include the ministries of finance, citizens' services, infrastructure, energy, and Indigenous relations, as well as the Forest Practices Board, Royal BC Museum, and BC Pension Corporation.

The unions have stated that they are maintaining essential service levels as required by law. However, they have warned that further escalation may occur if the provincial government does not return to negotiations to reach what they describe as a fair agreement.

Additionally, workers at the Liquor Distribution Branch are on strike, leading to all provincially operated liquor stores being picketed as the Thanksgiving long weekend approaches. The strike also affects Service BC workers, impacting services such as driver licensing, student loans, and income and disability assistance.

Melissa Moroz, executive director and lead negotiator for the Professional Employees Association, emphasized the critical role of their members in maintaining public safety and service. "They protect our drinking water, ensure our roads and bridges are safe, defend the public interest in court, and support responsible resource development," she stated. Moroz added that these workers deserve fair compensation and recognition of their expertise from the government.