The nine-union Facilities Bargaining Association (FBA) and the Health Employers Association of BC (HEABC) continued productive discussions last week.
 
To address members' need for more work-life balance and relief from stress and burnout, the committee has been pushing the employer to improve occupational health and safety, tackle workload, and implement employee-initiated rotations and scheduling.
 
The parties have agreed on new language that would provide members with more flexibility in scheduling annual vacations by holding back some vacation hours, as well as a commitment to create a benchmark for porters. The committee has also made progress on securing more resources for Enhanced Disability Management Program (EDMP) stewards, which will provide greater support for workers who are ill or injured.
 
Negotiations have also included many equity-related improvements, like addressing Indigenous-specific anti-racism and the recruitment and support of Indigenous workers; more support for workers accessing gender-affirming transition; a review of mental health supports; and a more efficient process for addressing respectful workplace concerns, sexual harassment, and the Complaints Investigation process.
 
Energized by the gains made so far, your committee is now getting ready to tackle the key issue of achieving a compensation package that will protect your paycheques against rising costs.
 
Contract talks continue this week.
 
In solidarity,
 
Your Facilities Bargaining Association Bargaining Committee