September 15,2025
RED FM News Desk
The head of the union representing B.C.’s public service workers says job action has intensified with an overtime ban for correctional officers and sheriffs.
Paul Finch, president of the B.C. General Employees’ Union (BCGEU), said in an interview that another announcement outlining further escalation aimed at pushing the government back to the bargaining table will be made Tuesday morning.
On Friday, the union began an overtime ban at several Liquor Distribution Branch warehouses. Picket lines have now entered their third week as members demand an 8.25 per cent wage increase over two years to help address rising living costs and other issues.
Earlier Monday, B.C. Finance Minister Brenda Bailey reported the provincial deficit had reached a record $11.6 billion in the first quarter of the 2025-26 fiscal year, citing the elimination of the carbon tax and global trade uncertainty.
Finch said the deficit update “doesn’t materially change” the union’s bargaining position.
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