The union representing outdoor workers at the Metro Vancouver Regional District announced that it will be initiating a work stoppage this weekend, impacting operations in 25 regional parks. Approximately 750 employees belonging to the Greater Vancouver Regional District Employees’ Union (GVRDEU), responsible for various regional services such as wastewater management, air quality monitoring, and park maintenance, have been working without a contract for 19 months.
Earlier in the summer, the union conducted a one-day strike to highlight the ongoing contract dispute with Metro Vancouver, the regional government encompassing 21 municipalities. Following unsuccessful attempts to draw attention to the issue through rotating strikes and overtime bans, the GVRDEU has decided to escalate their job action once more.
Bill Tieleman, the spokesperson for the union, stated that workers will cease garbage collection and trail maintenance activities, potentially affecting emergency access for park users in need of first aid. However, a spokesperson for Metro Vancouver disputed the union’s claims, asserting that crucial services like garbage collection, park patrol, bylaw enforcement, and ensuring safe park access will continue as usual.
Despite this, Tieleman expressed doubts about whether a limited number of essential workers could maintain the same service levels as the 100 workers who have walked off the job. He indicated that about 100 unionized park workers will be withdrawn from duty, leaving only 15 workers to manage operations across 25 regional parks as part of agreements for essential services with Metro Vancouver.
Tieleman advised hikers and park visitors to consider visiting parks outside of Metro Vancouver’s jurisdiction this weekend. The regional district oversees several popular parks and trails, including Pacific Spirit Park near the University of British Columbia, Grouse Mountain Regional Park in North Vancouver, and Belcarra Regional Park.
The union confirmed that no further negotiation sessions have been scheduled, with a mediator from the B.C. Labour Relations Board facilitating discussions between the two parties. Tieleman outlined three primary concerns of the union that have not been adequately addressed by management: workplace safety, employee retention, and the outsourcing of work.
Metro Vancouver issued a statement assuring the public that all programs and reservations at regional parks would proceed as planned over the weekend. The statement emphasized the regional government’s commitment to reaching a fair agreement through negotiations and highlighted their willingness to engage in mediated bargaining sessions for a mutually acceptable resolution.