HomeCanadian CitiesB.C. Professional Workers Escalate Strike After Talks Fail

B.C. Professional Workers Escalate Strike After Talks Fail

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Over 1,600 licensed professionals join B.C. public sector strike after wage talks collapse, expanding the province’s longest job action.

Contract Talks Collapse Amid Wage Dispute

Almost all of British Columbia’s government-licensed professional workers are going on strike after contract negotiations with the province broke down earlier this week. The Professional Employees Association (PEA) said it became clear during Tuesday’s discussions that the government was unwilling to move beyond its proposed 3.5 per cent wage increase over two years.

Strike Expansion Confirmed After Early Release

The PEA’s public relations firm mistakenly sent a statement early, confirming a “major escalation” in strike action ahead of an official news conference scheduled for Thursday. The association’s executive director and lead negotiator, Melissa Moroz, said members are “deeply disappointed” that the province has failed to recognize the value of its own public servants.

Thousands of Public Sector Workers on the Lines

With this escalation, more than 1,600 licensed professionals will be on the picket lines, joining thousands of others already represented by the B.C. General Employees’ Union (BCGEU). Together, the two unions now represent roughly 27,000 striking public service workers across British Columbia.

Longest Job Action in PEA’s History

According to the PEA, this represents the longest period of job action in the union’s 51-year history. The association says the extended strike reflects the growing frustration among its members over stalled negotiations and inadequate wage offers amid rising living costs.

Broad Impact Across Key Ministries

PEA members work across several provincial ministries, including Health, Attorney General, Mining, and Water, Land and Resource Stewardship. Some essential service employees, such as hydrologists with the B.C. River Forecast Centre and child and youth psychologists with the Ministry of Children and Family Development, will continue to work during the strike.

Growing Pressure on Government

The BCGEU said Wednesday that both unions are united in urging the provincial government to “respect and fairly compensate” the public employees who keep essential services running. While both groups are upholding essential service requirements, union leaders warn that government inaction is “deepening the impact on communities” across the province.

Political Criticism and Public Concerns

B.C. Conservative Rosalyn Bird, the opposition critic for Children and Family Development, criticized the NDP government’s fiscal management, saying growing debt and deficits are undermining its ability to serve residents. Bird warned that the strike is already disrupting social assistance and disability payment processing, leaving vulnerable British Columbians at risk.

Uncertain Path Forward

As picket lines grow, both unions say they remain ready to return to negotiations if the government presents a fair and improved offer. For now, however, B.C.’s escalating public sector strike continues to affect government operations and the daily lives of residents across the province.

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