Sisters and Brothers

As you may recall, the Employer issued an "interim direction to staff" early in the fire season. The union did not agree that the direction met the terms of the Collective Agreement. Therefore, we filed a grievance. We met with BC Wildfire Services (BCWS) on August 9^th to assist in modification of the noted document.  The new document, which will be released shortly, is entitled "BC Wildfire Service Direction to Staff - Average Hours of Work Schedule – August 10, 2016".

The union can confirm that the new document does not contravene the collective agreement. As such we will conclude the grievance.

The issue of "blackbook flex" removal of this year remains a key issue. A group of approximately 150 of you around the province filed a grievance of this issue. The union will continue to pursue this grievance and work towards a practical resolution.

Both the BCWS and the BCGEU remain committed to finding a solution to this issue that addresses your very serious concerns. It is a complex issue that potentially impacts public service auxiliaries beyond BCWS.

We have agreed to ongoing meetings with BCWS going forward to address this and other concerns as they arise.

We will update you as this issue develops.

Please direct any questions or concerns to your local Chairperson.

In solidarity

George Buis

BCGEU, Vice President, Environmental, Technical and Operational

Download PDF of notice here.

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