BCGEU STRIKE FOR ANOTHER 8.25% INCREASE

 

BCGEU Strike: What It Means for the Rest of Us

Government workers in British Columbia, represented by the BCGEU, have walked off the job demanding another 8.25% wage increase on top of substantial raises already won in their last contract. The union cites the rising cost of living, but this strike highlights a deeper problem: an economy that increasingly works for insiders while leaving ordinary families behind.

Public service workers already enjoy secure jobs, rich benefits, and a defined-benefit pension plan—perks almost extinct in the private sector. Their last contract delivered more than 14% in raises over three years, thanks to inflation-linked clauses. Now, they want more. Meanwhile, in Nanaimo, families working at or near the minimum wage of $17.85 an hour are barely hanging on—facing rent, food, and fuel costs that don’t come with taxpayer-backed pensions or ironclad job security.

The contrast is glaring. It’s not that government workers shouldn’t be fairly compensated—it’s that the balance between what taxpayers can afford and what unions demand has tipped dangerously. Until governments confront rising costs, management bloat, and inefficiencies, taxpayers will keep paying more for less, while trust in the system continues to erode.

JUST THE FACTS

·      The last BCGEU contract (2022–25) delivered ~14% in general wage increases due to inflation triggers.

·      The union is now seeking another 4% + 4.25% over two years, plus a cost-of-living clause.

·      B.C.’s minimum wage is $17.85/hr (~$37,128 per year at full-time).

·      BCGEU wage grids range from the high-$30Ks to $80K–$100K+ annually for most technical and professional roles.

·      Benefits include 80–100% extended health coverage, 100% basic dental, vision allowance, life insurance, and employer-paid sick leave.

·      Members are enrolled in the Public Service Pension Plan, a defined-benefit pension with lifetime income and COLA protection.