WATCH: Metro Vancouver outside workers launch full-scale strike
BURNABY — Metro Vancouver outside workers have launched a full-scale strike, effective Monday June 15.
After 17 months without a contract, bargaining with their employer has stalled due in part to the Greater Vancouver Regional District Employees Union's refusal to accept pre-conditions for coming to the table.
After 17 months without a contract, Metro Vancouver outside workers have gone on strike.
— Sitka Media (@sitkamedia) June 15, 2026
What are they asking for, why has bargaining stalled, and what impact will this have on residents?
Sitka Media’s @JarrydJaeger headed down to the picket line to find out ⬇️ pic.twitter.com/bahifKs7zc
Along with fair wages and benefits, "health and safety" were cited as key issues for striking workers.
"The most important thing for any worker is to be able to come back home and the end of their shift safe," GVRD Employees Union rep Bill Tieleman told Sitka Media, "and unfortunately Metro Vancouver has a record of negligence."
He also drew attention to the fact that compensation for management at Metro Vancouver has increased at a much higher pace than that of workers, arguing that it's "not adding anything to the services the public needs."
GVRD Employees Union rep Bill Tieleman says striking workers have received a “great reception” from the public:
— Sitka Media (@sitkamedia) June 15, 2026
“I think everybody in Metro Vancouver understands that Metro Vancouver management has made a series of serious mistakes.” pic.twitter.com/27uIqIBdIE
"I think everybody in Metro Vancouver understands that Metro Vancouver management has made a series of serious mistakes," he said.
The union will decide later Monday whether to continue the full strike action.
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