Vancouver public school support workers vote nearly 97 per cent to authorize strike action

Support staff at Vancouver’s public schools have voted overwhelmingly to authorize strike action in a labour dispute with the school board. The International Union of Operating Engineers Local 963 says members voted over the weekend, with nearly 97 per cent in favour. Union business manager Tim De Vivo said in a statement that the union could serve 72 hours’ strike notice at any time, but is urging the Vancouver School Board to resume talks.

The union says workers have been asked to accept concessions that would affect existing working conditions and job security. Talks stalled in September after the board declined to discuss a counteroffer from workers, according to the union.

The union represents about 900 support staff, including building engineers, custodians, chefs and bakers, culinary assistants, food service workers and supervision aides, among others.