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BCGEU Member Dies During Picket Line in Saanich

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A member of the B.C. General Employees’ Union (BCGEU) passed away following a medical emergency on the picket line at 3350 Douglas St. in Saanich on September 16, 2023. The union has confirmed the death but has not disclosed the individual’s identity, citing the need for privacy for the family and colleagues. In a statement, BCGEU communications spokesperson Nadja Komnenic expressed condolences, noting, “Our thoughts are with the member’s loved ones and fellow workers during this difficult time.”

The nature of the medical emergency remains undisclosed, and it is unclear whether the incident was related to the ongoing strike conditions or if it stemmed from pre-existing health issues. Following the incident, the picket line at the location was shut down on September 17, made optional on September 18, and resumed on September 19. When a reporter from Victoria News visited the site on the afternoon of September 19, no picketers were present.

In response to the incident, counselling support is being offered to BCGEU members at the Victoria Area Office. The situation has raised safety concerns among union members, especially as it coincided with a separate bear spray attack on BCGEU picketers near the Royal B.C. Museum. Earlier in the week, BCGEU President Paul Finch highlighted reports of aggressive behavior, including “yelling, spitting, racialized and homophobic verbal assaults, and other violent incidents.”

Concerns regarding the safety of picketers have prompted discussions about whether such incidents are covered under WorkSafeBC protections. BCGEU has reached out to WorkSafeBC for clarity on this matter.

The union is currently engaged in job action involving more than 8,500 public service workers, who are participating in various forms of protest, including picketing and overtime bans. President Finch announced that the union had escalated its actions this week, with additional workers from B.C.’s mining operations joining the strike, and an overtime ban implemented in corrections and sheriff services.

The community’s response has been poignant, with discussions emerging on social media platforms such as Reddit, where users expressed their condolences and emphasized the importance of solidarity among workers during such challenging times. A post in the r/BCPublicServants forum urged members to support one another, reflecting the emotional strain felt within the union.

As the BCGEU continues its actions, the focus remains on ensuring the safety and well-being of its members while advocating for improved conditions in the public service sector.

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