Unionized workers at Telus Employer Solutions (formerly TSSI), who provide payroll services to the B.C. Government, have reached a tentative agreement with their employer, the BC Government and Service Employees' Union (BCGEU) announced today.

"This was a challenging round of bargaining for our members, who recently voted 100 per cent in favour of a strike vote to back up their bargaining demands," said BCGEU president Stephanie Smith. "Our members' solidarity was a key factor in securing a fair collective agreement with the employer."

A key sticking point in the negotiations was the employer's refusal to consider a two per cent annual wage increase to match government workers – insisting on lump sum payments instead.

After returning to the bargaining table with a strong strike mandate, the bargaining committee negotiated a tentative four year agreement with wage gains of two per cent a year in the first three years and one per cent in each six-month period of the fourth year.

Modest improvements to benefits are also included in the tentative agreement, including eyeglasses, pay-in-lieu of health and welfare coverage and improved vacation scheduling. 

A ratification meeting is scheduled to be held on Tuesday, June 4 in Victoria. The BCGEU represents approximately 60 members at Telus Employer Solutions.

UWU/MoveUP