Colin Cheng is the BC-based FB Bargaining Team member. You may also recognize him as a Metro Vancouver Coordinator on PSAC BC’s Regional Council.
PSAC BC recently connected with Colin to hear about his experiences on the Bargaining Team and what keeps him motivated.
Interview with Colin Cheng
Why did you become a Bargaining Team member?
I want to achieve positive changes to the existing FB collective agreement and create entitlements for all unionized members to benefit from. It is a significant honour to represent our union with the labour movement for increased wages, additional leave provisions, job security, expanding human rights, and improving our working conditions.
What’s the most rewarding part of being on the Bargaining Team?
Participating on the bargaining team is a rewarding opportunity to contribute to all members, promote engagement, and advocate for union demands. I am proud to support my union against the employer.
What has surprised you most about bargaining?
I am most surprised by the employer’s initial proposals, because it confirms their continued disrespect and fails to acknowledge the excellent work that my members do in their chosen professions. In a world with rising costs, the employer’s insulting offer demonstrates a disconnect with reality that the value of labour has somehow depreciated.
What keeps you motivated?
I am consistently motivated by advocates that share my beliefs and published union wins. Existing collective agreements were built on gains from previous contracts. I look forward to our demands being met to further support the membership and labour movement.
How does member support affect you at the table?
Membership support guides me at the bargaining table. As a representative of my member’s voice and interest, unionism is strongest when our direction is to achieve shared goals. I am committed to ensuring that the membership is represented and am mindful every time I am at the bargaining table.
Is there anything else you’d like members to know?
I am available to listen and respond to concerns when raised from the membership. I can attend meetings in-person or virtually so that we can engage, share points of views, and unite in solidarity.
Keep updated on FB BargainingAbout Colin Cheng
Colin is passionate about human rights and has been an active advocate with PSAC and CIU Local 20040 for nine years. Colin first got involved with the union after attending a PSAC Duty to Accommodate course in 2017 where he gained knowledge and tools to help members navigate the challenges and key issues related to their accommodations. After the course, Colin mobilized this knowledge at his worksite and began advocating for members’ human rights for accommodations.
In his role as a Border Services Officer, Colin keeps Canada’s borders safe, and has been doing so for 17 years. As imported goods enter the country, Colin conducts inspections to ensure weapons and narcotics are intercepted to protect the public.