Vancouver school support staff vote overwhelmingly to authorize strike
The union says talks have stalled and it could serve 72-hour strike notice at any time.
VANCOUVER — Support staff at Vancouver's public schools have voted overwhelmingly to authorize strike action in a labour dispute with the school board.
The International Union of Operating Engineers Local 963 says members cast ballots over the weekend, with almost 97 per cent in favour.
Union business manager Tim De Vivo said the union "could serve 72-hour strike notice at any time," but is urging the Vancouver School Board to resume talks.
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"Our members have rarely gone on strike at Vancouver schools; we are committed to keeping students warm, safe, dry, and fed, but the demands of VSB management are unfair and unnecessary and really angered our members, as seen in the incredibly strong strike vote," De Vivo said.
What are the workers' concerns?
The union says workers have been asked to take concessions that would affect "existing working conditions" and job security.
"At a time when the entire world is urgently seeking more skilled workers, VSB is trying to de-skill the jobs of some of our members, and that's not on," De Vivo said.
The union says negotiations with VSB management have stalled and that a strike may be necessary to negotiate a new collective agreement.
When did negotiations break down?
Talks stalled in September when the union says the board declined to discuss a counter offer from workers.
The vote took place over two days this weekend, the union says.
Who does the union represent?
The union represents about 900 support staff for the Vancouver School Board.
Those workers include building engineers, custodians, chefs and bakers, culinary assistants, food service workers, supervision aides and trade-qualified maintenance engineers, among others.
The International Union of Operating Engineers Local 963 says it represents 900 of VSB's employees.
What happens next?
The union says members could serve 72-hour strike notice at any time.
CityNews has reached out to the Vancouver School Board for comment.
With files from Global News and CityNews