BC General Employees Union President Paul Finch says over 20% of its members are working a second or third job in order to keep up with the rising cost of living.
This as picket lines are being set up in Victoria, Prince George and Surrey today (Tuesday) after members voted overwhelming in favour of strike action.
For now, Finch told Vista Radio people won’t notice a disruption in services unless the strike escalates.
“There are over 2,000 BCGEU members on picket lines at nine sites across the province. We are committed to stay on strike and to expand and escalate that strike as necessary until we get a deal that meets the needs of our membership.”
There are 262 BCGEU members at the PG picket lines on 1011 4th Avenue.
The union is seeking a four-per-cent general wage increase in the first year and 4.25 per cent in the second year, as well as an unspecified cost-of-living adjustment.
“Over several years (wages) have lagged behind inflation and as a result now, 22% of our members report they are working a second or third job because of this untenable situation. It takes a lot of courage to go on strike, it is our last resort. A lot of our members are struggling and our other members are there to support them,” added Finch.
The BCGEU has about 34,000 members in fields including social services, health care, education, government liquor stores, prisons, courts and public administration.
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