The British Columbia Government and Service Employees` Union (BCGEU) recently signed a new collective agreement with Vancouver Island University (VIU). This agreement is set to impact thousands of employees and students at the university, and it comes after months of negotiations between the two parties.
The new collective agreement includes a number of changes that are aimed at improving working conditions for VIU employees. These changes include increases to wages and benefits, improved job security, and more flexible scheduling options.
One of the major changes in the new agreement is an increase in wage rates for all BCGEU employees at VIU. This increase is set to take effect over the course of the next four years, with a 2.5% increase in the first year and subsequent increases of 2% in each of the following years.
In addition to wage increases, the new collective agreement also includes improvements to benefits for BCGEU employees at VIU. These improvements include increased dental coverage, additional vacation days, and access to extended health benefits for dependents.
Another important change in the new agreement is an emphasis on job security for BCGEU employees at VIU. The agreement includes provisions for longer-term contracts for certain types of positions, as well as a commitment to providing job security for employees who have been with the university for an extended period of time.
Finally, the new collective agreement also includes provisions for more flexible scheduling options for BCGEU employees at VIU. This includes the ability for employees to request changes to their work schedules in order to accommodate personal or family needs, and a commitment from VIU to work with employees to find solutions that meet both their needs and the needs of the university.
Overall, the new BCGEU collective agreement with VIU represents an important step forward for employees at the university. With improved wages, benefits, job security, and flexibility, BCGEU employees are well-positioned to continue delivering high-quality education and services to students and the community at large.