Dear City et al (City of Vancouver, Park Board, RayCam, and Britannia) Members:
This email is to provide an update on the ongoing job action by Metro Vancouver workers, represented by the GVRDEU.
The strike is ongoing and to date, pickets and other actions have had little impact on Local 15 members. Some disruption was observed at the Transfer Station, but this has recently been resolved after the City received common site relief for this location from the Labour Board.
Looking forward, and as the strike continues, there is potential for greater disruption at sites shared with GVRDEU members. Accordingly, we are writing to provide updated information and to refresh the direction emailed previously, which can be found below.
We know this is a challenging situation for any affected members, and we encourage folks to reach out with any questions or concerns.
What to do if you encounter a picket line when you come to work
If members attend work at any time and find a picket line in place, do not cross it. Our responsibility as union members is to respect picket lines as a universal principle of solidarity and support.
If members encounter a picket line, please look for a CUPE contact person on the line and check in with them, or call the union office at 604-879-4671 for more information and direction.
What will happen if members don’t cross the picket line
The employer has stated that they will not pay CUPE 15 members who refuse to cross picket lines to report for work, which is why CUPE and CUPE BC provide strike pay in these circumstances. So, if picketing prevents Local 15 members from working, the Local will set up its own solidarity picket line, with members serving shifts as they would if we were on strike ourselves.
Those unable to work due to a picket line at their worksite and who participate in the solidarity picket will qualify for strike pay. More details about the requirement to work a picket shift in order to qualify for strike pay will follow should the need to establish a solidarity picket arise.
What to do if you encounter a picket line while already at work
As with any picket line, it is our responsibility as trade unionists to respect it. If you find that your workplace is behind picket lines after you have reported for work, please immediately call the office at 604-879-4671 for more information and guidance.
In solidarity,
Kevin Rose
Administrator