All government-run liquor, cannabis stores in B.C. closed as strike escalates

An escalation of job action by striking public service workers means all BC Liquor and BC Cannabis stores will be closed.

Workers at all government-run liquor and cannabis stores in B.C. have now joined picket lines, according to the union representing striking public service workers.

The B.C. General Employees’ Union announced the escalation of job action Wednesday.

“We don’t take this escalation lightly, and we know that disruptions to services are difficult for the public — we regret the impact this is having on communities,” union president Paul Finch said in a statement.

“But after months of patience, our members have been left with no alternative.”

All Service BC workers will also be joining picket lines, the union said. People who rely on income or disability assistance, the provision of which is an essential service, will still be able to access it at the usual locations. Offices that do not provide this essential service will be closed and non-essential services will not be available, according to the province.

Talks broke off between the government and the union more than a week ago, with wages the main sticking point in the stalled negotiations.

Finch said the bargaining committee is ready and willing to head back to the table, as long as the government presents a “revised wage offer.”

Wednesday’s escalation brings the total number of striking workers to nearly 25,000 — which represents about 75 per cent of the union’s membership.

Premier David Eby said last week that his government’s latest offer was five per cent over two years, but the BCGEU said that figure bundles in market adjustments and other factors, and isn’t a direct increase to general wages.

The B.C. deficit is forecast as a record $11.6 billion, and Finance Minister Brenda Bailey has said the deal must be fair to both workers and taxpayers.

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With files from The Canadian Press