How the BC NDP Has Supported Unions Over the Past Decade

Over the past ten years, the BC NDP government has taken significant actions to support unions and strengthen labour rights across British Columbia. Their initiatives have focused on improving working conditions, promoting fair wages, and enhancing workplace safety, benefiting union members and working people throughout the province. Here are some of the most notable union-friendly measures taken by the BC NDP:

1. Restoring Project Labour Agreements (PLAs)

The BC NDP reintroduced Project Labour Agreements (PLAs) on major public infrastructure projects. PLAs prioritize hiring local union labour, ensuring union wages, benefits, and working conditions for workers on these projects. Examples of projects under PLAs include the Pattullo Bridge replacement and the Highway 1 expansion, both of which require contractors to hire union labour and provide apprenticeships for local residents, Indigenous workers, and underrepresented groups.

2. Raising the Minimum Wage and Tying It to Inflation

Since coming into office, the BC NDP has implemented regular minimum wage increases, raising the province’s minimum wage from $11.35 in 2017 to $15.20 by 2021, and tying it to inflation in 2022. This wage policy benefits not only minimum-wage earners but also raises the wage floor, creating upward pressure on other wage levels, which can support union wage negotiations.

3. Legislation for Paid Sick Leave

The NDP government introduced permanent paid sick leave, mandating five paid sick days per year for workers across British Columbia. This was a significant step in promoting workplace health and safety and aligns with union advocacy for better worker protections. Unions have long called for paid sick leave, and this move demonstrates the NDP’s commitment to improving conditions for all workers.

4. Strengthening Workplace Safety and the Workers’ Compensation Board (WCB)

Under the BC NDP, workplace safety has seen improvements through increased funding and support for the Workers’ Compensation Board. They have enhanced oversight and compliance measures to ensure that employers prioritize worker safety. The NDP has also restored benefits and reformed WCB processes to provide better support for injured workers, addressing long-standing union concerns over worker safety and adequate compensation.

5. Promoting Apprenticeship and Training Programs

The BC NDP has invested in apprenticeship and training programs to support skilled trades and address labour shortages in high-demand industries like construction. Through initiatives like the Community Benefits Agreement (CBA), the NDP has prioritized hiring and training apprentices, local workers, Indigenous people, and women. This has not only strengthened the skilled labour pool but also created more pathways to union membership and stable employment in construction and other trades.

6. Restoring the Human Rights Tribunal and Supporting Anti-Bullying Policies

One of the first actions by the BC NDP was to restore the BC Human Rights Tribunal, which had been dismantled by previous governments. They also introduced anti-bullying policies that empower unions to advocate for fair treatment and respectful workplaces. The government has worked with labour groups to implement harassment and bullying prevention strategies, ensuring that all workers have a safe and respectful work environment.

7. Ensuring Fair Labour Rights and Collective Bargaining

The BC NDP has been consistent in supporting fair labour rights and the collective bargaining process. The government has enacted policies that make it easier for workers to organize and join unions, including reversing restrictive labour laws put in place by previous administrations. For instance, they introduced amendments to the Labour Relations Code to simplify union certification and protect workers’ rights to unionize without undue interference from employers.

8. Expanding Worker Rights with the Employment Standards Act

The NDP government has made amendments to the Employment Standards Act to strengthen worker rights and protections. Reforms have included improvements in overtime pay, restrictions on child labour, and new rules around job termination and severance. These changes align with union priorities for fair treatment and job security and provide unions with more tools to protect their members.

9. Increased Investments in Public Infrastructure

By prioritizing investments in public infrastructure, the BC NDP has created numerous job opportunities for union members in construction and skilled trades. Their focus on upgrading healthcare facilities, schools, and transportation systems has not only provided work for thousands of tradespeople but has also ensured that these projects are built to high standards with a strong emphasis on safety, quality, and local benefits.

10. Support for Unionized Public Sector Workers During COVID-19

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the BC NDP government took significant steps to protect public sector workers, many of whom are unionized. They provided support for healthcare workers, teachers, and other essential workers, ensuring that they had access to protective equipment, hazard pay, and other benefits. Additionally, the NDP prioritized keeping public services strong and accessible, which was especially beneficial for unionized workers who deliver these services.

11. Community Benefits Agreements (CBAs)

Community Benefits Agreements have been one of the flagship initiatives under the NDP government. CBAs ensure that public infrastructure projects support good jobs for local residents, Indigenous communities, women, and apprentices. They also include specific requirements for contractors to hire union labour, pay fair wages, and offer apprenticeships, thus enhancing union job opportunities and creating a skilled workforce.

12. Collaborating with Labour Organizations

The BC NDP has maintained a collaborative relationship with labour organizations, including the BC Federation of Labour, the BC Building Trades, and various unions across the province. This partnership has enabled unions to have direct input into government decisions on labour policies, enabling legislation that directly benefits union members, such as support for collective bargaining rights and fair hiring practices on public projects.

13. Flush Toilets for Construction Sites

Imagine going to work in your office and not having flush toilets. The BC NDP listened to the BC Building Trades and implemented flush toilets on large construction sites. Starting on October 1, 2024, all B.C. construction sites with 25 workers or more will be required to provide clean, flush toilets along with running water.

Summary

In summary, the BC NDP has consistently shown its support for unions and working families in British Columbia. By promoting fair wages, workplace safety, and collective bargaining rights, the NDP has established a solid track record of policies that benefit union members. Through its support for Community Benefits Agreements, public infrastructure investments, and legislation that upholds worker protections, the BC NDP has worked to create a more inclusive and equitable labour market.

As union members consider their options in the upcoming election, it’s clear that the BC NDP has made tangible progress for unions and working people. Their policies have contributed to a safer, fairer, and more prosperous working environment for all British Columbians, especially those in construction and skilled trades.