Wage reopener decision leaves members falling behind
We are shocked and dismayed by the 2025 wage reopener decision.
The arbitration panel awarded just a 1.65 per cent general wage increase for 2025, even though the Bank of Canada projects inflation at 2.3 per cent this year.
That means a real wage cut for our members.
Special wage increases were awarded to only five classifications:
- DPM trades assistants ($27.68)
- Maintenance planners (most, $50.10)
- Driver stores ($32.94)
- Galley helpers ($31.73)
- Equipment operators ($32.98)
No other classifications will receive special increases.
While most of our members get 1.65 per cent, management is getting a two per cent wage increase. Meanwhile, B.C.’s minimum wage will increase by 2.6 per cent on June 1.
Our members keep this coast moving. We keep the ferries sailing in every weather. We step up when the system falters. We do the work, and we shouldn’t be punished for corporate mismanagement or government underfunding.
The panel gave far too much weight to the employer’s financial excuses and far too little to the real cost of living and the sacrifices made by working people.
Our union’s panel representative dissented from this decision. We reject this outcome. And we will be looking at every avenue to fight back and correct it.
This fight is not over. More updates to come.
Read the ruling here.
Questions? Read our FAQ sheet.
In solidarity,
Eric McNeely
Provincial President
