How to Go on Strike: A Guide for Workers in BC
Strikes are a powerful tool for workers to use when they feel that their rights or conditions are not being met by their employer. But going on strike can be a daunting process, especially if you’re not familiar with the steps involved or the role of union representation.
Here’s a guide to help you understand how to go on strike in British Columbia:
Before You Strike:
Understand your rights as a worker: In British Columbia, most workers have the legal right to strike, but there are some exceptions. For example, essential service workers (such as healthcare workers) may not have the right to strike. Make sure you understand your rights before deciding to strike.
Get support from your union: If you’re a unionized worker, your union will play a critical role in the strike process. They will negotiate with your employer on your behalf, provide legal support, and help you organize.
The Strike Process:
Negotiations: Before a strike can take place, your union will typically try to negotiate with your employer to reach a fair agreement. This process is known as collective bargaining. If negotiations are not successful, the union may decide to call for a strike vote.
Strike vote: A strike vote is a vote by unionized workers on whether or not to go on strike. In British Columbia, a strike vote can be called if a majority of the workers in the bargaining unit vote in favor of it.
Notice of Strike: Once a strike vote has been taken and passed, the union will provide your employer with a notice of strike. This notice must be given at least 72 hours before the strike begins.
Striking: After the notice of strike has been given, the workers will begin to strike. This may involve picketing outside the workplace, refusing to work, or other forms of protest.
Resuming Work: If a collective agreement is reached, the strike will end and the workers will return to their jobs. If no agreement is reached, the workers may continue to strike until an agreement is reached.
Role of Union Representation:
Collective bargaining: The role of union representation in the strike process is to negotiate with the employer on behalf of the workers. This process is known as collective bargaining, and it involves discussing issues such as wages, benefits, and working conditions with the employer.
Legal support: Unions provide legal support to their members during the strike process. This may include providing advice on the legal rights of the workers, helping to resolve disputes, and representing the workers in court.
Organizing the strike: Unions also play a critical role in organizing the strike. This may include helping to plan and coordinate the strike, providing resources and support to the striking workers, and communicating with the media.
Collective Bargaining:
Collective bargaining is a process by which the employees and their representatives negotiate with the employer to reach an agreement on wages, benefits, and working conditions.
It is protected by the BC Labour Code, and it is the primary way in which workers in British Columbia can improve their wages and working conditions.
In conclusion, going on strike can be a powerful tool for workers to use when their rights or conditions are not being met by their employer. But it’s important to understand the process and the role of union representation before proceeding.
If you’re considering going on strike in British Columbia, make sure to understand your rights as a worker and have the support of your union.
If there is no struggle, there is no progress.