BC Liberal cuts and under-funding are shortsighted
e government delivered another disappointing budget yesterday.
The announced 11 percent cut to the public service is a massive blow that will hurt communities at a time when they are relying on these services the most. Hardest-hit ministries like Forests and Range are being hollowed out, resulting in much less capacity for research, inspection, and enforcement.
AirCare is a program worth saving
If you live on the lower mainland and own a vehicle, you’ll be familiar with the AirCare program. It’s run by BCGEU and COPE 378 members and administered by Translink. AirCare’s aim is to make sure vehicles in the region meet strict air pollution and emission standards.
Let’s not put the vulnerable at risk
The community of Duncan is facing a huge blow in early August when the Cerwydden Care Centre contracts to an outside service provider.
A tentative agreement in facilities bargaining
The multi-union Facilities Bargaining Association and B.C.'s health employers have reached a tentative two year agreement. It covers more than 48,000 hospital and long-term care workers. Roughly 2,000 belong to the BCGEU.
Stopping cuts to legal aid
B.C.'s legal aid system faces drastic cuts at the end of March.
BCGEU contributes to Haitian relief on behalf of members
Like many of you, I was shocked by the television images of devastation and grief that followed the earthquake in Haiti - levelling many towns and cities and claiming hundreds of thousands of lives.
Withdrawl of BCNU raid applications an opportunity to move forward
This week, the BC Nurses Union announced it is withdrawing its raid applications at the Labour Relations Board to represent all Licensed Practical Nurses in B.C., because they don't have enough signed cards to trigger a certification vote.
BCGEU stakes clear position in public service talks
As we finish our first two days of public service bargaining, it is clear that we face a challenging round of negotiations.
BCGEU members stand up for their communities
I continue to be amazed by our members and how dedicated they are to the services they provide, in the face of real challenges.
The Northern Health Authority (NHA) announced it would be closing two important services for some of the most vulnerable people in our province: Step Up House, a mental health group home in Quesnel and ATLAS Youth Drug and Alcohol Treatment centre in Terrace.
Cuts to mental health are short-sighted
Yesterday I went to Waddell's Haven Guest Home, a mental health and addictions facility in Mission. I was there to talk to workers, residents and their families about Fraser Health Authority's recent announcement of the facility's closure. They were in shock after hearing the news last week.
