Metro Vancouver outside workers escalate job action into a full-scale strike after weeks of rotating pickets, with bargaining talks described as stalled. The union representing more than 700 outside workers agrees to mediation shortly after the strike begins, according to multiple outlets. Metro Vancouver says the union has agreed to mediation, and the strike is later called off as mediated talks move forward, with mediation arranged through the B.C. Labour Relations Board.
The union’s position on resuming negotiations is reported as conditional. Its president, Jesse Medeiros, says restarting talks depends on Metro Vancouver dropping preconditions for negotiations. While one report says the workers have agreed to mediation, another says the union has not agreed to resume talks without those terms being met. Global News also reports that the full-scale strike is called off, and that essential-service staff do not participate.
Overall, the dispute centres on stalled contract negotiations, moving from escalating job action to mediation, with disagreements about what Metro Vancouver must do for talks to proceed.
