In a resounding victory for PSAC BC members, today the BC Labour Relations Board affirmed a geographic certification for Commissionaires who perform work on Vancouver Island or the Gulf Islands. Commissionaires who work in these geographic locations will automatically become part of the PSAC’s Directly Chartered Local 20500 bargaining unit going forward.
In the summer of 2025, the Public Service Alliance of Canada, BC Region (PSAC BC) reached an agreement with the Employer, the Canadian Corps of Commissionaires (Victoria, the Island and Yukon Division), recognizing PSAC Directly Chartered Local 20500 as the exclusive bargaining agent for all Canadian Corps of Commissionaires employees on Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands with limited exceptions.
This decision marks an important step forward. Previously, PSAC BC was required to organize members worksite-by-worksite with variance certificates. With geographic certification now affirmed, Commissionaires performing duties at worksites on Vancouver Island or the Gulf Islands will automatically be included in the PSAC bargaining unit.
“This decision recognizes something workers have known for a long time: people doing this work deserve stability, fairness, and a real voice in the workplace,” said PSAC Regional Executive Vice-President Jamey Mills. “Many of these workers keep our communities safe around the clock, often working long or irregular hours and in challenging conditions. Union representation helps ensure they have access to fair scheduling, safe working conditions, and the protections that come with a strong collective agreement.”
Reflecting on the Labour Board’s decision, Local President Nicole Petrie remarked, “We are proud to welcome these new members to PSAC DCL 20500, and we are ready to stand beside them as they secure the rights and respect that all workers deserve.”
When workers stand together in a union, they gain the power to protect their rights, improve working conditions, and speak with a collective voice. PSAC BC is committed to ensuring that every Commissionaire on Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands has the opportunity to benefit from union representation.
The participation of every Commissionaire throughout this organizing effort has been deeply appreciated and has played a meaningful role in advancing working conditions for all.