BC STORIES

BCGEU Members Poised for Job Action Across B.C.

Published

1 year ago

on

The B.C. General Employees’ Union (BCGEU) has issued a formal strike notice, setting the stage for potential widespread job action involving roughly 34,000 public service workers across the province. Unless a last-minute deal is reached, job action could begin as early as September 2, 2025, and would affect a broad range of government operations, from administrative offices to frontline services. Union leaders say members have been without a fair contract for too long, citing stagnating wages, inflationary pressures, and workload challenges as key issues driving the dispute.

Concerns Mount in the Hospitality and Retail Sectors
 Among the most immediate concerns is the potential disruption to liquor and cannabis distribution, since many BCGEU members are employed at warehouses and distribution centres. Restaurants, bars, and retail outlets fear supply shortages if strike action materializes, with industry groups warning that any prolonged disruption could hurt small businesses still recovering from a challenging summer season. The uncertainty has already prompted some establishments to stockpile supplies, while others brace for higher prices and logistical headaches.

Government Faces Pressure to Avert Disruption
 The B.C. government has signaled its willingness to return to the bargaining table but has so far resisted union demands for wage increases tied directly to inflation. Finance officials argue that wage settlements must balance fairness for workers with fiscal responsibility, particularly given other pressing provincial commitments. Political observers note that the strike could test the governing party’s credibility on labour relations, especially in a province where public sector unions play a powerful role. For now, all sides are preparing for a tense standoff that could impact daily life for British Columbians.

Explainer: Which Services Could Be Affected by the BCGEU Strike?

  • Liquor & Cannabis Distribution – Warehouses supplying government and private outlets may shut down, leading to shortages for restaurants, bars, and retail stores.
  • Public Service Offices – Delays expected in processing permits, licenses, and government paperwork as clerical and administrative staff walk off the job.
  • Highway Maintenance & Inspections – Some road maintenance, safety checks, and inspection services could slow or halt, particularly in rural areas.
  • Social Services – Support for vulnerable populations, including some community outreach and government-funded programs, may be reduced.
  • Provincial Parks & Recreation Sites – Park rangers and staff may join picket lines, potentially reducing services at campgrounds and visitor facilities.

While essential services such as healthcare and policing are protected by law, the strike could still create noticeable disruptions across daily life in B.C. depending on how long job action lasts.

Related Topics:
Continue Reading

BC STORIES

Discover the Hidden Beauty of New Brunswick’s Waterfalls Through Drone and On-the-Ground Video

CBC videographer Roger Cosman explores New Brunswick’s hidden waterfalls using drone and ground footage, with tours including Walton Glen Gorge Falls.

Published

20 hours ago

on

September 5, 2026

By

Exploring Provincial Waterfalls

CBC videographer Roger Cosman is traveling across New Brunswick this summer to document the province’s hundreds of natural cascades. His journey relies on drone footage and on-the-ground exploration to capture these often-secluded scenic spots.

Featured Locations and Next Destinations

Cosman’s tour has covered multiple sites, including Pabineau Falls, Sand Brook Falls, Tetagouche Falls, Lepreau Falls, Wallace Falls, Welsford Falls, Little Sheephouse Brook Falls, and Fall Brook Falls. His latest footage highlights Walton Glen Gorge Falls along the Fundy coast, with Fuller Falls scheduled as the next stop on the itinerary.

Continue Reading

BC STORIES

Lower Mainland Illegal Gaming Investigation Leads to Charges and Cash Seizure

Two Lower Mainland residents face criminal charges after a B.C. illegal gaming house investigation yields cash, gaming gear, and illicit tobacco seizures.

Published

20 hours ago

on

September 5, 2026

By

Joint Investigation Uncovers Multiple Gaming Locations

An enforcement operation targeting illicit gambling in the Lower Mainland has resulted in criminal charges against two individuals. On Aug. 26, the B.C. Prosecution Service approved charges following an extensive probe by the Combined Forces Special Enforcement Unit’s joint illegal gaming investigation team. The investigation originally launched in March 2023 at a single site before expanding into inquiries regarding several gaming operations.

Thousands in Cash and Illicit Goods Confiscated

Executing multiple search warrants across properties located in Burnaby and Vancouver, officers gathered substantial evidence. Police seized approximately $240,000 in Canadian currency, around 145 kilograms of illegal tobacco products, gaming equipment, gaming tables, and various electronics, such as tablets, mobile phones, laptops, and digital video recorders. Officials confirmed that all confiscated equipment and illicit proceeds have been forfeited to the province.

Court Appearances Pending for Accused

Facing charges under section 201(1) of the Criminal Code for keeping a common gaming house are Shahrouz Younesi, 54, of Burnaby, and Xiaoyi Karen Zhang, 46, of Vancouver. In addition to the gaming charge, Younesi is charged with selling unstamped tobacco products. Both individuals are expected to appear in court on a future date.

Continue Reading

BC STORIES

Police Warn Ontario Homicide Suspect Believed to Be Hiding in Remote B.C. Backcountry

First-degree murder charges issued for Joseph Madore and Brayton Kennedy in Ontario homicide. Madore is believed to be hiding in remote B.C. backcountry.

Published

2 days ago

on

September 3, 2026

By

Upgraded Charges and Active Search

Two men wanted in connection with an Ontario homicide are now facing upgraded charges of first-degree murder as they remain on the run, according to an announcement by the Ontario Provincial Police on Thursday, Sept. 3.

Joseph Madore, 34, and Brayton Kennedy, 28, both hailing from Ottawa, were previously facing second-degree murder charges. Warrants have been issued for the arrest of both men, and authorities are warning the public that they remain at large.

Potential Locations and Local Connections

Investigators believe Madore may be in British Columbia, potentially camping or travelling through remote backcountry regions. He is reported to have ties to several B.C. communities, including Abbotsford, Chilliwack, Terrace, and Richmond. Kennedy is believed to potentially be in New Brunswick.

The search has previously touched B.C. soil. Following a search of a rural property in Terrace this past June, the RCMP alongside Ontario Provincial Police confiscated two firearms connected to the investigation. Arrest warrants for Madore and Kennedy were initially granted during the same month.

Homicide Investigation Details

The investigation began after Lanark County OPP responded to an incident at Last Duel Park in Perth, Ont., at 3:15 p.m. on April 12. Officers located 34-year-old Ottawa resident Christo Allison Richards suffering from life-threatening injuries. He was taken to a trauma centre, where he later died. Tofino-Ucluelet Westerly News reported that the victim was found with life-threatening wounds in Last Duel Park in Perth, Ontario.

Two additional individuals have already been charged in relation to the case. A 46-year-old Perth resident was charged with conspiracy to commit murder in May, and 32-year-old Lyna Du of Ottawa was charged with accessory after the fact to murder.

Public Safety Warning

Police advise anyone who spots either suspect not to approach them and to call 911 immediately. Anyone holding information about the whereabouts of Madore or Kennedy is urged to contact the Lanark County OPP at 1-888-310-1122, or submit anonymous tips through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or ontariocrimestoppers.ca.

Continue Reading

Trending