The BCGEU has entered into an agreement with BC Corrections to ensure Correctional Officers (COs) on hospital escorts have an opportunity to leave their work stations during rest periods. 

The agreement contains procedures for scheduling rest periods in consultation with COs, and ensuring that relief is provided so that rest periods can be taken away from work stations. Our union and the employer will meet quarterly for a year to monitor the implementation of the agreement.     

Arbitrator John Hall retains jurisdiction over the agreement, and either party can request his assistance at any time during the monitoring period to resolve issues that might arise. The agreement requires the employer to amend its policies where necessary to ensure they accord with the terms of the agreement.   

All COs should familiarize themselves with the terms of the new agreement, and re-read Article 14.4 of the Public Service Agreement.  The success of the agreement is dependent on COs exercising their rights, reporting rest period issues to their local union representatives, and filing grievances if necessary.  

Through monitoring and reporting by all COs, the union will be in a better position to both identify and correct any future concerns around rest periods.     

Dean Purdy,

BCGEU Vice President Corrections and Sheriff Services - Component 1

Download PDF of Appendix A - Rest Period Policy here.

Download PDF of Monteith Rest Periods Settlement Agreement here.

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