January 29 | Document, document, document

After a challenging week with BC Ferries in mediation, the mediator is unavailable this week. We expect a report on mediation efforts upon his return.

This week we have already held a two day provincial executive meeting, a number of bargaining related calls with legal counsel, and some really good discussions with union leadership on paths forward to strengthen our membership position.

I know the process has been slow for members impacted by bargaining since 2025. Please know we have not lost sight of the priorities identified by membership. Part of the protracted process is because we are pushing a difficult employer and their representatives to get real.

Flexing labour, with the potential for job action, is how most real gains and breakthroughs in Canada are achieved.

We will continue to do what we need to do to get a fair deal for the unionized members we represent.

At the workplace, we recently received an arbitration decision that highlighted the need to follow the collective agreement timelines for grievances. With that in mind, please review the two and one week windows for grievance filing and escalation.

Both members and shop stewards are expected to follow the grievance process. Any agreed deviations must be accompanied by written agreement with the employer to ensure we have the best ability to achieve resolution.

Local and component leadership are expected to schedule twice monthly meetings with the responsible PX or HR person to discuss grievances at Steps 1 and 2. Initial discussions should be done by members and their supervisors or managers.

As we say, document, document, document.

Until next time, take care of each other and yourselves.