Metro Vancouver union workers issue 72-hour strike notice amid wage disputes
Metro Vancouver’s unionized workers have issued a 72-hour strike notice, set to begin at 3:36 p.m. on Sunday. The move follows months of stalled negotiations, with the latest talks held on April 13 and no further meetings planned. Workers have overwhelmingly backed potential job action, with 97.8 per cent voting in favour in March.
The union represents employees who operate and maintain key regional services, including water supply, sewer systems, infrastructure, parks, and housing. Despite their role in essential services, drinking water, wastewater treatment, and waste collection will remain unaffected by any strike action.
Metro Vancouver’s offer includes a general wage increase of over 10 per cent spread across three years, along with a one-time wage adjustment. However, the union argues that frontline workers’ pay has not kept pace with rising costs, especially when compared to exempt management staff. Compensation for senior managers rose by 69 per cent—from £67 million in 2019 to £113 million in 2024—while rank-and-file wages stagnated. Key disputes in negotiations revolve around worker safety, protections against contracting out, and measures to improve recruitment and retention. The union has also accused Metro Vancouver’s senior leadership of provoking tensions and mishandling major projects, such as delays at the North Shore wastewater treatment plant. With no further talks scheduled, the strike notice marks a significant escalation in the dispute. Both sides remain far apart on critical issues, leaving little room for immediate resolution.
The strike notice will take effect on Sunday afternoon, though essential services will continue without interruption. If no agreement is reached, the job action could disrupt non-emergency regional operations. The outcome will depend on whether either side revisits negotiations before the deadline.
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