PEA members working for the BC Public Service serve 72-hour strike notice

VICTORIA, BC, Aug. 2, 2012 /CNW/ - Members of the Professional Employees Association (PEA) who work for the BC Public Service have served 72-hour strike notice. The union will be taking targeted strike action on Tuesday, August 7^th in Kelowna, Surrey, 100 Mile House and Campbell River.

PEA members who work for the BC Public Service are licensed professionals who work as foresters, engineers, veterinarians, mines inspectors, licensed psychologists and more.

The PEA has been at the bargaining table since January. The union booked out of negotiations with a mediator on Tuesday, July 9. The PEA membership returned a 92 per cent strike vote on May 12, 2012. Their collective agreement expired March 31, 2012.

"The main issues still outstanding are wages and job security," said Al Gallupe, Labour Relations Officer with the PEA. The PEA is seeking a wage increase that matches the cost of living. PEA members have been without a wage increase since 2009.

PEA members working for the BC Public Service have never taken strike action in their 38-year history. "Our members don't take the decision to strike lightly," said Gallupe.

About the Professional Employees Association

The Professional Employees Association (PEA) is a labour union for professional employees. The PEA represents over 1200 licensed professionals in BC's public service, including Mines Inspectors, Forest Research Scientists, Bridge Engineers, Wildlife Veterinarians, Petroleum Geologists and Foresters. Find out more about the PEA at pea.org.

SOURCE: Professional Employees Association

Media Contact: 
Al Gallupe, Labour Relations Officer
Phone: [phone] ext. 202