Public Service Bargaining Committee

Paul Finch (Chair)

Local: 601
Job title: IT Project Analyst
BCGEU title: President
BCGEU member for: 20 years and 2 months

“The strength of our union is essential to the health of our democracy. As the largest and most diverse union in the province, we play a critical role not just in seeking better wages and working conditions for our members, but representing our broader political interests.

I was initially resistant when nominated by my colleagues to run for the executive of the union. That skepticism was lifted when many of us collectively realized the tremendous potential of the union, and launched an internal movement to democratize our internal processes, modernize our operations and improve our communication and representation of membership.

These internal reforms have two main goals. The first is to win the best possible agreements for our members within prevailing conditions. The second is to develop our ability to politically represent our membership as the public sector of society, in opposition to and above the private and special interests that often hold sway in our governing institutions.”

Maria Middlemiss

Local: 1201
Job title: Administrative Officer
BCGEU title: Treasurer
BCGEU member for: 30 years

"I became a union activist nearly 30 years ago to address a fairness issue at my worksite and to advocate for a group of my coworkers who the employer was trying to strip away rights in our collective agreement. We had no steward at the site and, like many of you, I saw the need and stepped in. I became a steward and successfully represented these members and assured they were treated with the dignity and respect they deserved. That sense of solidarity, standing beside and advocating for follow coworkers inspired me then and continues to inspire me now. I am deeply fulfilled by helping members receive the fair treatment that is their right!"

Dean Purdy

Local: 101
Job title: Correctional Supervisor
BCGEU title: Vice-President, Component 1
BCGEU member for: 37 years

"Solidarity is standing together as a union to negotiate an agreement that has better wages, benefits and safe working conditions. Getting involved in a union as a steward or bargaining member is the highest example of solidarity."

Kusam Doal

Local: 503
Job title: Store Clerk
BCGEU title: Vice-President, Component 5
BCGEU member for: 23 years

"Becoming a union activist with the BCGEU, and supporting my fellow members, has been incredibly rewarding. Even more fulfilling is encouraging others to get involved—because there is strength in numbers. The more engaged and active BCGEU members are, the stronger our collective voice in fighting for better wages, working conditions and benefits—not just for ourselves, but for all workers.

I learned the power of union solidarity at an early age from my father, who worked for Cominco and was a proud member of the United Steelworkers. His experience showed me firsthand how a strong, united workforce can bring about real change. That lesson continues to inspire me in my activism today."

Judy Fox-McGuire

Local: 610
Job title: Social Program Officer
BCGEU title: Vice-President, Component 6
BCGEU member for: 23 years

"I would recommend everyone to become involved in their union and in bargaining because the proposals that are made at the table come directly from the membership. If we know what fellow members are experiencing on the front line, we can address it with the employer."

"Also, some of the language in the collective agreement exists without workers understanding their rights or exercising them. We strive to educate BCGEU members on the collective agreement and your involvement can vary depending on how much capacity you have. If you have a little bit of time, contact your local chair and become a worksite contact. If you have more time and want to take a greater role, we will educate you to be a steward. If you are booked off work, the union covers your wages so you will not lose money."

Mona Dykes

Local: 607
Job title: Employment Assistance Worker
BCGEU title: Component 6 Second Representative
BCGEU member for: 26 years

"I have been a union activist for 25 years. Solidarity to me means inclusion and the voices, needs and demands of our union. I have met and worked with extraordinary people who believe in fairness and the betterment of our workplaces and our communities. This has changed me as a person. The struggles we face are all of our struggles. Activism is not just something I do, but also, it is how I live my life."

DJ Pohl

Local: 1204
Job title: Paralegal
BCGEU title: Vice-President, Component 12
BCGEU member for: 17 years

"As a passionate advocate for justice, fairness and equality, I am honored to represent the Administrative Professionals Component at the bargaining table. Component 12 members are the backbone of government services, ensuring British Columbians have access to the essential programs and supports that contribute to a stronger, safer and more just province.

Our work impacts every resident in B.C.—we are in every office, in every ministry, and it’s time our contributions are valued and respected as they deserve to be. To secure fair wages, benefits, manageable workloads and equal treatment, the voice and participation of administrative professionals are essential—both at the bargaining table and at every worksite.

I look forward to strengthening our collective power, building capacity and raising our voices together to achieve the respect and fairness we all deserve."

Faith Johnston

Local: 1206
Job title: Team Assistant, MCFD
BCGEU title: Component 12, First Vice-Chairperson
BCGEU member for: 27 years

"Solidary during bargaining to me means that we work together to achieve improvements to everyone involved.  That strength in numbers gives us leverage against the employer in negotiations, allowing us to use collective action to achieve our goals.  

When I first started my career in government, I quickly realized the reward of being in service to others. Becoming involved in the union felt like a natural next step: I find the work incredibly rewarding and valuable, as union activism means being able to positively impact the lives of others."

Sebastian Kallos

Local: 2003
Job title: Chainsaw Specialist, BC Wildfire Service / Pemberton
BCGEU title: Vice-President, Component 20
BCGEU member for: 16 years

"I got involved because Component 20 members, especially those in wildfire, have long faced inequities in wages, benefits and recognition. Our work is essential, high-risk and increasingly complex as fire seasons become longer and more severe. This round of bargaining is a chance to push for meaningful improvements that reflect the real value of our work to the public and to the province.

Solidarity during bargaining means standing together with coworkers across the public service. It is not just about one group’s issues; it is about all of us recognizing that progress in one area strengthens everyone. When members are engaged, informed and united, it sends a clear message to the employer that we are serious about protecting our rights.

Bargaining starts with the membership. Bringing forward priorities, sharing experiences and participating in union activities all strengthen our position at the table. Whether you are a steward, a bargaining team member or someone who helps build awareness at your workplace, your involvement matters. It gives the team the leverage needed to achieve real gains.

Wildfire personnel protect communities, infrastructure and natural resources during some of the most challenging conditions in the province. Our responsibilities extend beyond fire response: We are trainers, planners and public servants committed to public safety and operational readiness. The people of British Columbia deserve a wildfire workforce that is well-supported, highly trained and treated with the same respect as other emergency services."

Larisa Mills (BCGEU Staff)

Job title: BCGEU Staff Representative

"Solidarity during bargaining means that union members are engaged, wearing their union pins, and educating themselves on the issues by attending information sessions and watching our bargaining updates on social media. I encourage all members to make sure they are on our email list, using their personal (not work) email, by logging into the member portal at: my.bcgeu.ca"