By Canadian Press

Union to announce next phase of B.C. public service strike

Sep 8, 2025 | 1:03 AM

The president of the B.C. General Employees’ Union is set to make an announcement this morning laying out the next phase of the union’s public service strike.

The union says Paul Finch is scheduled to speak at a picket line in Surrey on the fifth consecutive day of picketing following the launch of job action last Tuesday (Sept. 2).

The union represents more than 34,000 members working for B.C.’s public service and has held picket lines at locations including government sites in Victoria, Surrey, and Prince George, and the Royal BC Museum.

According to Global News, the hospitality industry is preparing for strike action to extend to Liquor and Cannabis Distribution Branch distribution centres as of Monday (Sept. 8).

Sources to Global say government insiders have told the industry to “stock up” ahead of expected disruptions the supply chains.

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During the last strike three years ago, picket lines in front of liquor and cannabis distribution centres – including the one in Kamloops – lasted for about two weeks, and it cut off deliveries to restaurants, bars and the public.

This current strike began last Tuesday, and wages remain a key sticking point between the two sides.

“We’re going to continue to escalate as necessary,” Finch said last week. “The government’s refused to come back with an enhanced offer.”

Premier David Eby has said the government’s goal is to reach a deal that’s both fair to unionized workers and fair to taxpayers.

Negotiations for a new contract broke off in July.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Sept. 8, 2025

– With files from Global News