BCGEU Reaches Breakthrough Deal to End Historic Strike in B.C.
After nearly two months of job action that rippled across British Columbia, a major turning point has finally been reached. The BC General Employees’ Union, or BCGEU, has announced a tentative agreement with the provincial government — a move that could soon see liquor and cannabis stores, government offices, and other essential public services reopening across the province.
This strike, which had stretched for more than eight weeks, became one of the largest and most impactful labour actions in recent B.C. history. It involved over 25,000 public service workers and had steadily expanded to include ministries, Service BC locations, and even BC Liquor and Cannabis stores. But after eight long days of mediation, the two sides finally struck a deal that both parties are calling a step forward.
BCGEU President Paul Finch praised the unity of workers, saying the agreement was built on “the incredible strength and solidarity” shown by members across the province. He emphasized that the deal makes significant progress in key areas like fair wages, affordability, and respect for frontline public service employees who have kept the province running through tough economic times.
Under the tentative agreement, workers will see a general wage increase of three percent each year for four years — a structure aimed at providing more stability and predictability amid ongoing cost-of-living challenges. There are also targeted pay boosts for the lowest-paid employees, which the union says directly addresses the affordability crisis that has been a major sticking point throughout negotiations.
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But the deal isn’t just about money. It also includes several non-monetary improvements, such as faster grievance resolutions, better fairness in telework policies, and a modernized contract that reflects the changing realities of today’s workplaces. Vision care and counselling benefits are being expanded too, marking a stronger commitment to mental health and well-being.
The tentative agreement was reached through mediation led by respected labour mediator Vince Ready, known for his decades of experience settling high-stakes disputes across Canada. His involvement was seen as a key factor in helping both sides finally find common ground after months of stalled talks.
Now, the focus turns to ratification. Around 34,000 BCGEU members will review and vote on the agreement within the week. The results are expected shortly after, and if approved, many public services could reopen as soon as Monday.
Meanwhile, members of the Professional Employees Association (PEA), who had joined the strike alongside BCGEU, have decided to suspend their picket lines and return to the bargaining table. BCGEU has said it will continue to respect PEA picket lines until their own deal is reached.
In a statement, B.C. Finance Minister Brenda Bailey expressed optimism, saying she’s pleased an agreement is in place and that the government will respect the union’s ratification process.
After months of disruption, long hours on picket lines, and widespread service closures, this tentative deal marks a hopeful new chapter for thousands of workers — and for the many British Columbians who rely on their services every day.
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