The labor union representing outdoor workers at the Metro Vancouver Regional District has decided to halt work this weekend, causing disruptions in services across 25 regional parks. Approximately 750 employees affiliated with the Greater Vancouver Regional District Employees’ Union (GVRDEU) have been operating without a contract for the past 19 months. Earlier this summer, the union held a one-day strike to highlight the ongoing contract disagreement with Metro Vancouver, which includes 21 municipalities.
According to a statement by union spokesperson Bill Tieleman, workers are set to cease garbage collection and trail maintenance activities, potentially impacting access for emergency responders in case of park users requiring first aid. However, a Metro Vancouver representative refuted the union’s claims, stating that essential services such as garbage collection, park patrols, bylaw enforcement, and ensuring safe park access will continue as usual. Tieleman expressed doubts about whether a limited group of essential workers could match the service level provided by the 100 workers who have walked off the job.
Tieleman indicated that approximately 100 unionized park workers will be withdrawn from their duties, leaving only 15 workers to manage 25 regional parks as per the essential services agreements with Metro Vancouver. Advising hikers and park visitors, Tieleman suggested considering parks outside Metro Vancouver’s jurisdiction for the weekend. The regional district oversees popular parks and trails like Pacific Spirit Park near the University of British Columbia, Grouse Mountain Regional Park in North Vancouver, and Belcarra Regional Park.
Tieleman mentioned that a mediator appointed by the B.C. Labour Relations Board is assisting both parties in negotiating a new deal, but no further negotiation dates have been planned. The union’s primary concerns, including workplace safety, employee retention, and work outsourcing, have not been adequately addressed by management. Metro Vancouver assured that all scheduled programs and reservations at regional parks would proceed as planned over the weekend. The district emphasized its commitment to reaching a mutually agreeable resolution at the bargaining table and expressed readiness for additional mediated bargaining sessions.