Tentative contract reached for 25,000 B.C. health-science workers

A tentative agreement was announced for 25,000 health‑science professionals in British Columbia and the union says it includes 12% wage increases over four years; full details will be released after a ratification vote.

A tentative contract agreement has been reached for 25,000 health‑science professionals in British Columbia. The Health Employers Association of BC and the Health Science Professionals Bargaining Association issued statements announcing the deal. The agreement is reported to follow the provincial government's balanced measures mandate. Further details were said to be withheld until after a ratification vote. Key elements: - The union represents about 25,000 health‑science workers, including physiotherapists, pharmacists, psychologists and social workers. - The union states the deal includes wage increases of 12 per cent over four years, the maximum allowed under the mandate. - Officials say the agreement includes additional funding for measures to address staffing pressures and investment in professional development. - The agreement also includes reimbursements for professional fees and improvements aimed at working conditions. - Negotiations began nearly a year ago and resumed for five days of talks, including a 24‑hour bargaining session. Summary: The tentative agreement would set multi-year wage increases and provide funding intended to address staffing pressures and professional supports, which the union says target shortages affecting wait times and cancellations. The union is recommending members vote to accept the agreement. The next step is a ratification vote and further details will be released after that vote.