BCGEU members at business practices consumer protection authority ratify new deal

Some 29 BCGEU members who work for the provincial government's Business Practices and Consumer Protection Authority (BPCPA) have voted to approve a new two-year contract.

“With the assistance of a mediator, the bargaining process allowed us to reach an agreement that recognizes the hard work and contribution of all our staff in this tough economic climate.  I am pleased to bring this collective agreement to our members,” said bargaining committee member Joan Harmsworth.
 
Following the earlier public service agreement model, the new contract offers no wage increases, but does include continued temporary market adjustments, as well as benefits improvements. Members will also get one additional holiday day in the 2011 vacation year for all vacation categories.
 
BCGEU members at the BPCPA oversee and enforce a variety of business practice and consumer protection laws and regulations in the province, including those covering the funeral industry, travel agencies and telemarketing companies.