BCGEU members at Regional District ratify agreement

VANCOUVER, May 4 /CNW/ - Members of the B.C. Government and Service Employees' Union (BCGEU) who work for the Regional District of Okanagan Similkameen have ratified a new collective agreement.

The agreement was ratified by 97 percent. The agreement was reached with the help of mediator Mark Atkinson. The employer will consider ratifying the agreement on May 6.

"I am pleased that we were able to reach an agreement," said Darryl Walker BCGEU president. "We understand the challenges facing local governments and I appreciate the strong support given to the bargaining committee."

Highlights of the agreement include:

    
    Two year deal expires December 31, 2011
    1.5 percent general wage increase each year in 2010 and 2011
    Increase in annual sick days
    Comprehensive grievance procedure
    Contracting out language is improved
    Seniority improvements for casuals
    

There are around 60 employees at the District who are clerical workers, planners, landfill staff and water technicians.

For further information: Brian Gardiner, BCGEU Communications, [phone]