President's Video Update: Building a Stronger, More Democratic Union

In a new video update, BCGEU President Paul Finch reflected on some of the key changes underway across our union, in addition to the progress made since last fall's historic public service strike. Watch the video here.

Many members have requested more regular updates from elected leadership, and these video messages are intended to provide timely, relevant information about the work happening across our union. 

Here are some of the topics that Paul touches on in the video: 

Strengthening democracy and accountability

Since our last convention in 2024, we have been engaged in a major transformation project focused on setting priorities and strengthening the organization for the years ahead. One of the main goals has been restoring and enhancing the democracy of the union. 

One way in which this has been achieved was the introduction of reforms to how bargaining committees and elected bodies operate. In addition, we have implemented a formal management structure for the first time in the organization's history. These changes are intended to strengthen accountability within the union and ensure that decisions made by elected leaders are effectively carried out through clear processes and procedures. 

Bargaining gains across the union

 Last year, members faced the challenges of a difficult round of sectoral bargaining. Public service members led the strike action that ultimately resulted in gains not only for the public service, but for also for other bargaining units. In total, approximately 70 per cent of BCGEU membership benefitted. 

While the public service bargaining round received significant attention, it is important to remember that the BCGEU represents workers across many sectors throughout the province. Ensuring that all bargaining units are treated with equal respect and attention remains a key priority for our union. 

Modernizing systems and member services

Our union continues to improve day-to-day services for members by modernizing systems and processes. Some of these initiatives include improving the accuracy of membership lists, introducing more standardized training and developing a new mobile membership app. 

Member Portal

As part of ongoing efforts to improve communication and member engagement, please ensure that you are signed up for the Member Portal. The portal plays an important role in helping members stay informed and connected with their union. 

Growing together across the province

Paul concluded by recognizing a significant milestone for our union: BCGEU membership has now surpassed 100,000 members across the province! 

It is critical for our union to reflect the broad range of members it represents and to ensure every sector and bargaining unit receives the support and attention it deserves. 

"We are incredibly lucky to have that diversity. We need to continue to make sure that this is a union for the entirety of the province." 

UWU/MoveUP

Congratulations to the 2026 BCGEU Scholarship Winners

The BCGEU is pleased to support our 2026 scholarship recipients in their continuing education.

2026 BCGEU Scholarship Winners 

Scholarships of $2,500 for full-time students and $1,500 for part-time students were awarded to members and their families across the province with a total of $130,000 awarded in total.

Winners will be mailed a letter with instructions on how to claim their scholarship.

Members can also apply for scholarships from our National union, NUPGE. Find more details here.

UWU/MoveUP

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

May 8, 2026
 

B.C. government betrays workers in liquor distribution sellout 

BCGEU says expanding private liquor distribution puts hundreds of jobs and public service revenue at risk, bypasses a commitment to union consultation and weakens B.C.'s effective public distribution system  

BURNABY, B.C. (Coast Salish Territories) – The B.C. General Employees' Union (BCGEU) is condemning the provincial government's decision to proceed with direct delivery of refreshment beverages, calling it a betrayal of a written commitment to consult the union before making changes to liquor distribution policy – and a gift to the industry lobbyists who have spent years pushing for privatization of B.C.'s public liquor system.

"This government was elected on a promise to stand up for working people, but they are listening to industry lobbyists instead of the workers who deliver public services every day," said Paul Finch, BCGEU president. "BCGEU members were not meaningfully consulted before these changes were announced, and no comprehensive analysis was conducted or shared, despite the clear implications for public distribution work and the future of the LDB."

The policy, announced May 7, 2026, allows B.C. manufacturers of coolers, ciders, ready-to-drink cocktails and other refreshment beverages to bypass the government-owned Liquor Distribution Branch (LDB) and deliver products directly to wholesale customers. Refreshment beverages are the fastest-growing segment of the alcohol market, already representing 6.8 to 10 per cent of B.C.'s alcohol market. Diverting this volume away from the public system puts as many as 490 LDB and BC Liquor Store jobs at risk, and fragments and introduces complexity to a system that currently performs 97 per cent on time with 99 per cent accuracy. This public system generated $1.09 billion in net revenue for the province in 2024/2025.

"The public liquor system exists for a reason – to serve British Columbians," said Finch. "It performs strongly and generates significant revenue for health care, education, and other public services while ensuring accountability and province-wide access. Weakening that system in favour of private logistics and distribution models is the wrong direction for B.C."

The BCGEU was not consulted before the decision was made. In March 2022, the government committed in writing to consult the union on liquor policy changes. The minister reaffirmed that commitment in 2024. Despite those assurances, the BCGEU was informed only after the decision was already underway. Meanwhile, the minister took repeated meetings with industry lobbyists and received input from the Business Technical Advisory Panel and BC Chamber of Commerce.

"The minister is giving more weight to private, corporate interests than the needs of those who elected her as a representative – the working people of B.C.," said Finch. "The BCGEU wants a thriving liquor industry for all, and we are deeply disappointed that the minister doesn't want that, too. Any attempt to weaken a public system is a threat to working people." 

A recent Leger poll commissioned by the BCGEU found that 86 per cent of British Columbians want public revenue considered in liquor policy decisions.

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The BCGEU represents more than 100,000 workers across B.C. Approximately 4,900 BCGEU members are employed by the LDB as full-time permanent or auxiliary workers in communities across the province including 236 cannabis and liquor stores, one Wholesale Customer Centre and four Distribution Centres. These workers ensure the responsible distribution and retailing of liquor and cannabis in B.C., generating revenue that supports quality public services for British Columbians.

For more information, contact BCGEU Communications ([email protected]) or call 604-291-9611. 

UWU/MoveUP

Hello Members, 

The BCGEU is inviting proposals from Indigenous members of the union, as well as their children and dependents, for the design of a logo for the Provincial Executive Indigenous Advisory Committee.
 
If you are interested in this opportunity, please reply to this email to confirm your interest.
PurposeWe are seeking an original logo that reflects the relationship between the union and its indigenous members, and the shared values that guide that relationship, including respect, solidarity, inclusion, dignity, justice, and reconciliation.
 
BackgroundThe union wishes to commission a design for a logo that can be used in union spaces, events, gatherings, publications, and other approved materials. The design should be meaningful, visually strong, and suitable for reproduction in both physical and digital formats.
 
The intent is to create a respectful symbol that reflects both the union and its Indigenous members, while recognizing the values and commitments the union seeks to uphold.
 
The budget for this project is up to $5,000.00.
 
ObjectiveThe objective of this request is to identify an Indigenous member, their child or dependent who is an artist or designer to develop a logo concept that:

• Express the union's commitment to meaningful inclusion and respect for Indigenous members
• Reflect values such as solidarity, accountability, justice, cultural respect, and shared belonging
• Be appropriate for ceremonial, representative, educational, and public-facing use

Scope of WorkThe successful proponent will:

• Develop and original logo concept and provide a visual rationale
• Provide draft options and concepts for review
• Incorporate feedback from the union through an agreed revision process
• Deliver final files suitable for print, digital use, and flag production
• Transfer or license final usage rights as agreed

Design ConsiderationsProposals shall demonstrate:

• Respectful engagement with Indigenous symbolism, meaning, and cultural considerations
• Clear explanation of colours, shapes, and imagery used in the design
• Visual balance between representing the union and Indigenous members in a way that is thoughtful
• Practical suitability for scaling, visibility, and flag production
• Originality, avoiding copying or use of protected cultural imagery without authorization

DeliverablesThe successful proponent will provide:

• Final logo files in high-resolution and editable formats
• A written explanation of the symbolism and design choices
• Colour specifications and production guidance (if applicable)
• Any alternate versions needed for print, digital, or accessibility purposes

Project Completion: No later than June 15, 2026. The logo must be ready for publication before June 21, 2026. This timeline is important and must be met. 
Proposal Submission RequirementsYour proposal should include:

• A short statement of interest and understanding of the project purpose and values
• Relevant experience and/or portfolio samples
• Your design approach and how you will incorporate feedback
• Cost and timeline

Evaluation CriteriaSubmissions will be evaluated based on:

• Understanding of the project purpose and values
• Strength and relevance of previous work
• Quality and clarity of the proposed approach
• Cultural respectfulness and design rationale
• Cost

Submission Instructions

• Submission Deadline: Friday, May 22, 2026.
• Please submit your proposal by email to Keith Cameron at [email protected]

 Reserved Rights
BCGEU reserves the right to accept or reject any proposal, request further information, or not proceed with the project. The union also reserves the right to negotiate scope, deliverables, timeline, and budget with the preferred proponent.
 
If you have any questions, feel free to reach out. 
 
Thank you for your interest – we look forward to seeing your ideas.
 
Keith Cameron
Campaigns and Communications/Indigenous Liaison

UWU/MoveUP

Every year on April 28, the Day of Mourning is recognized by people across Canada and around the world to remember those who have been injured, become ill or tragically died in needless workplace incidents.

In 2025, 185 people in B.C. died due to work. This is the number of deaths reported to WorkSafeBC as of March 25, 2026. As of January 31, 2026, 138 of these were accepted claims for work-related deaths. These included 2 young workers (between 15 and 24 years of age at time of death), 79 resulting from occupational disease, and 59 resulting from a traumatic injury. 

The impact of these workers' deaths – of the commitment they made to the people of B.C. and the heartbreaking sacrifice they and their families and communities have endured – is significant and unforgettable. I invite you to observe a moment of silence for them, and for all workers who were injured, made sick or killed because of something that happened at work. If you are able, consider attending a ceremony in your community today - see the list at https://dayofmourning.bc.ca/

All workers should return home healthy at the end of their shift. The Day of Mourning is an important opportunity to reiterate this. Workplace incidents are preventable and everyone in B.C. – including employers, unions, workers, individuals and WorkSafeBC – has a role to play in workplace health and safety. The effort is shared, but each party has specific responsibilities given their authority and accountabilities: 

• Employers have a responsibility to create and maintain safe and healthy workplaces by following safety legislation, regulations, and applicable policies. This includes taking care to identify hazards, reduce risks, and address unsafe conditions and practices when they arise. Ultimately, employers are responsible to the people who come to work each day and the families who depend on their safe return home. 

• Workers have the responsibility of following established policies and procedures, speaking up about hazards, reporting unsafe conditions observed or heard about, and sharing ideas for improvement with supervisors or through Joint Occupational Health and Safety Committees (JOHSCs).

Remember: As a worker, you have the right to refuse or report unsafe work to your supervisor or manager and your Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) committee – this is written in law, outlined in the Workers Compensation Action Regulation Section 3.12. You can review the procedure to follow when refusing unsafe work here. 

Regardless of your role, you can help prevent injury, illness and death from occurring in your workplace. Together, we will continue our collective, uncompromising fight for better, stronger regulations and practices and, ultimately, safer workplaces for all.

In solidarity,
Paul Finch, BCGEU President 

UWU/MoveUP

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

April 28, 2026 

BCGEU Hits 100,000 Members Ahead of May Day

BCGEU announced today that it has surpassed 100,000 members, coming just ahead of International Workers' Day (May Day), a global day recognizing the importance of worker solidarity and collective action.
 
This rapid growth reflects a renewed momentum among workers across industries who are seeking stronger protections, fair wages, and a collective voice amid ongoing global economic uncertainty.
 
"Crossing 100,000 members is a powerful signal," said Paul Finch, President of BCGEU. "Workers across British Columbia are standing together and demanding fairness, security, and respect on the job. At a time when people are worried about the cost of living and job security, unions are giving workers a stronger voice and real protection."
 
The BCGEU emphasized that its growth is driven by both active organizing and workforce expansion in existing unionized workplaces, alongside sustained investment in member services.
 
"Our priority is, and always will be, delivering for our members," said Finch. "Growth only matters if it strengthens our ability to represent workers effectively and that's where our focus remains."
 
"As we grow, so does our responsibility to provide strong, responsive representation," added Maria Middlemiss, Treasurer of BCGEU. "That means investing in our stewards, supporting our locals, and making sure every member feels heard and supported in their workplace."
 
The union is also one of the largest health care unions in the province, representing a growing number of frontline workers in a system under increasing strain from staffing shortages and rising demand.
 
"In health care especially, workers need a union that is responsive, transparent, and accountable," said Finch. "As one of the largest health care unions in B.C., we take that responsibility seriously because the stakes for workers and patients couldn't be higher."
 
The BCGEU says rising costs, economic instability, and changing workplaces are driving more workers to unionize across sectors. Union membership growth in British Columbia mirrors a broader trend seen across Canada and internationally, as workers respond to widening inequality and shifting workplace norms.
 
"May Day reminds us that the rights and protections workers rely on today were won through collective action," Finch added. "That lesson matters just as much now. In uncertain times, unions help ensure workers aren't left behind."
 
The union plans to continue organizing new workplaces, strengthening support for existing members, and advocating for stronger labour protections and policies that promote fairness and economic resilience.

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Media Contact:

Emma Rae Lierley | BCGEU Associate Director Communications | 604-735-0716 | [email protected]

About BCGEU
The BCGEU is one of the largest and most diverse unions in British Columbia with over 100,000 members in 470 bargaining units in the public and private sector.

UWU/MoveUP

Attend the Day of Mourning ceremony in Victoria, April 28 at 12pm 

Next Tuesday, April 28, 2026, is the National Day of Mourning – a time to remember our co-workers who were injured, made sick or killed because of something that happened at work, and to renew our commitment to creating safer workplaces. 

As a BCGEU member residing in the Victoria area, you are encouraged to attend the in-person ceremony on April 28 at 12:00-1:00 pm on the BC Legislature steps. The event is hosted by the BC Federation of Labour and Victoria Labour Council. BCGEU President Paul Finch will speak, and our union's Provincial Executive will be in attendance. More information about the event can be found at https://www.facebook.com/share/1B62hR3UxK/ 
 

For information about ceremonies in other communities across the province, visit https://www.dayofmourning.bc.ca/ 

UWU/MoveUP

MEDIA RELEASE 
April 14, 2026 
 

BCGEU files unfair labour practices complaint against Western Pacific Marine

BURNABY, B.C. (Coast Salish Territories) – The BCGEU, representing the unionized workers at the Kootenay Lake ferries, has filed an unfair labour practice complaint at the Labour Relations Board (LRB). The BCGEU takes the position that Western Pacific Marine has refused to sign and implement the terms of the Collective Agreement that members ratified on June 30^th, 2025.
 
The complaint was filed under sections 6(1) and 49(3) of the BC Labour Code. Western Pacific Marine has failed to pay the retroactive pay owed and has not implemented new items in the collective agreement, including day-to-day scheduling, benefit increases and shift differentials.
"In the last round of bargaining, ferry workers fought for and secured a contract that would ensure the long-term survival of safe, reliable ferry service for the ferry-dependent communities," said Sebastian Kallos, BCGEU Vice-President, Component 20, Environment, Technical and Operations. 
 
The new contract was the result of a full year of negotiations between the union and the company, followed by mediation to secure the final agreement. Arbitrator Vince Ready's decision on the terms of the collective agreement (subject to ratification by members) issued in his binding recommendations on June 10, 2025.
 
"The Labour Code is clear: once an agreement is ratified by members, then the agreement comes into full force and effect", said Paul Finch, BCGEU President. "Our members have the right to have their ratified agreement respected by their employer, Western Pacific Marine." 
 
BCGEU and Western Pacific Marine entered mediation in April 2025 after a months-long labour dispute. In June, Arbitrator Vince Ready delivered binding recommendations for a new contract with better wages and working conditions and a day-for-day scheduling system. Both measures are necessary to end staffing shortages that lead to ferry cancellations and would allow for expanded sailing times that the community has been lobbying for.
 
The new agreement is effective April 1^st, 2024, to March 31st, 2028. Western Pacific Marine manages and operates a ferry transportation system on behalf of the BC Ministry of Transportation, with their contract renewal due in 2028. BCGEU members that work at Western Pacific Marine include masters, mates, engineers, deckhands, cable ferry operators, terminal attendants, and marine clerks
 
The BCGEU is one of the largest unions in British Columbia, with over 95,000 members in almost every community and economic sector. 
 
BCGEU Component 20 Vice-President Sebastian Kallos is available for further comment.
 
-30-
 
Media contact: 
Susan Howatt | BCGEU Communications 

UWU/MoveUP

This day arrives with profound heaviness as we reach 10 years since the toxic drug crisis was declared a public health emergency in British Columbia. In that time, more than 19,000 lives have been lost, including BCGEU members and their loved ones. This loss is unbearable, and it continues every day.  

Our union stands with everyone demanding dignity for all and access to high-quality, evidence-based and voluntary healthcare services. These supports have been needed for years. We also know that in order to heal and establish safety, people need the security and liberty that affordable housing provides. We must keep advocating, knowing that housing is a human right. 

We recognize that this deep and ongoing grief carried by so many, including the workers who have spent the past decade responding to this crisis, is not ending as soon as it must.  Frontline workers have been asked to do the impossible: to offer support in a world that has barriers at every turn, to advocate for the value of human life, and to save lives in a system that continues to fall short. The toll of that work is real, and it matters. 

Ten years into this crisis, the failure to make meaningful progress cannot continue. Incremental steps have not matched the scale or urgency of the loss. We join the calls for urgent action to protect lives and end this crisis. 

Today, we remember those we have lost. We recommit ourselves to pushing for the bold, evidence-based action that this moment demands. In the face of all this adversity, we must carry forward together in loving remembrance of thousands who should still be with us. 

We remember. We grieve. And, together in solidarity, we will keep taking action for change. 

UWU/MoveUP