Over 25,000 B.C. Wildfire Service and Forestry Ministry workers have joined the BCGEU strike, expanding province-wide action while maintaining essentials.
Update on escalating labour action
On Wednesday, B.C. General Employees’ Union (BCGEU) announced that all eligible members of the B.C. Wildfire Service and the provincial Ministry of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations and Rural Development (Forestry Ministry) have joined its province-wide strike. The union said more than 25,000 employees are now participating across 550+ worksites in British Columbia.
Scope of participation and timing
The escalation comes in the eighth week of job action, after the public sector union and the provincial government announced on October 17 that mediation would begin with long-time mediator Vince Ready and colleague Amanda Rogers; talks commenced on October 18. The union’s update on October 22 confirms that all remaining eligible wildfire-service and forestry-ministry members are now engaged.
Location and current operational status
Although the strike affects staff in the wildfire service and forestry ministry across British Columbia, the Forestry Ministry indicated in a statement reported by Black Press Media that the B.C. Wildfire Service’s ability to respond to new and ongoing fires is not impacted. The ministry added that “essential services remain in place.” Meanwhile, the wildfire dashboard still lists 94 active fires in the province as of the afternoon of October 23, with one new ignition reported within the previous 24 hours.
Motivations and issues behind the strike
The BCGEU has been in protracted negotiations with the provincial government over compensation, job security, and working conditions for employees in multiple public-sector sectors. The wildfire service and forestry ministry workers joined the escalated action to strengthen bargaining leverage and press for a favourable resolution in mediation. The union emphasises that by including all eligible members, it is signalling increased pressure on the government to deliver acceptable terms.
How the strike is unfolding and what’s next
The union notes that while essential functions are being maintained to protect life and property, the expanded participation broadens the industrial action’s footprint—covering wildfire-suppression staff, forestry deputies and field workers. Mediation is ongoing under Vince Ready and Amanda Rogers, with the next steps dependent on progress in those talks. Should mediation stall, the union may escalate further or consider additional job action.
Potential implications and why it matters
This development comes at a critical time for British Columbia’s wildfire-management system. Though the peak of the wildfire season has passed, 94 active fires remain, and resources may soon be needed during colder months or the next season. A prolonged labour dispute could strain response capacity, disrupt forestry programs, and delay associated work such as fuels-management and fire-prevention planning. For Canadian readers and stakeholders, the situation underscores the interplay between public-safety services, climate-related risks and labour-relations dynamics.
Your voice. Your city. Your news. Stay connected with Surrey Speak.
Leave a comment