BC Government workers to strike on Wednesday Sept. 5 | What to do if you encounter a picket line

BC Government workers across the province will hold a one day strike on Wednesday September 5.
 
Next week, approximately 27,000 BC Government and Service Employees’ Union (BCGEU), Professional Employees Association (PEA) and Canadian Office & Professional Employees Union (COPE) Local 378 members who work for the BC government will go on strike in 153 communities and 1785 government worksites across B.C. The strike will last all day.
 
Since 2010, BC government workers have suffered a real wage cut of five percent. The government’s last offer, which has been withdrawn, would see pay cheques fall further behind inflation.
 
If you face a picket line at your workplace, you should take the following steps.

  • Ask to speak to the picket captain. Identify yourself and that you work in that building, office, or worksite. Find out what the major issues are.
  • Ask for a management representative in your office to escort you through the picket line.
  • Volunteer your support to our sisters and brothers who work for the provincial government. Support can take many forms: for example, you could join them on the picket line before and/or after work and during your lunch break. Your local can also make donations to their strike fund or the coffee fund. Ask what the picketers would prefer.
  • If you have any questions, concerns, or experience a problem at your worksite: contact your Regional Office immediately
It is important to remember that as unionized workers we sometimes must fight to improve our working conditions. All of us working together will make the struggle easier. Information about Solidarity activities throughout BC will be made as soon we have it available. For more information about the strike visit bcgeu.ca and cope378.ca.