Metro Vancouver workers picket projects linked to planned harbour dredging

VANCOUVER - A job action by unionized Metro Vancouver outside workers may impact the dredging of Burrard Inlet to accommodate larger vessels. The Greater Vancouver Regional District Employees’ Union announced that its members are on strike and picketing at two water main projects in Vancouver and North Vancouver. The union asserts that these projects must be completed before dredging can commence in September under the Second Narrows Ironworkers Memorial Bridge.

The federal government backs this plan, which would enable oil tankers with larger loads to navigate the waterway. Metro Vancouver regional district warns that prolonged picketing could disrupt project schedules and is open to further mediated negotiations for a resolution. Outside workers and the regional district have been contract-free for 19 months, and the dispute has already led to several job actions, including picketing and strike action in non-essential roles.

Union president Jesse Medeiros stated that the group is not opposed to advancing major federal, provincial or municipal projects but has been unable to reach an agreement with Metro Vancouver. Until a new contract is negotiated and ratified, the union will intensify job actions, including halting projects such as Burrard Inlet dredging.

Metro Vancouver is collaborating with contractors and utilizing exempt staff to minimize potential delays on the projects. Mediated bargaining between the two parties concluded on July 22, and the district has offered a 10 percent wage increase over three years, similar to other recent settlements, including one with the Teamsters union.

A spokeswoman for the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority acknowledged the job action but stated it is too early to predict any potential consequences for the port authority’s Second Narrows dredging works, which are in the pre-construction phase.