City council and the two Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) locals representing city workers have ratified a new three-year contract.
The contract between the city and CUPE Local 399, which represents the city's outside workers, and CUPE Local 1048, which represents council's inside workers), is retroactive to Jan. 1, of this year and is in effect until Dec. 31, 2026.
"CUPE members take great pride in delivering quality public services to the community, and we look forward to continuing our work with the city to serve the residents, businesses, and visitors of Prince George," stated Tyler Ezelyk, president of CUPE 399, in an announcement released by the city.
The locals represent 600 city workers. Negotiations began in January.
“We’re pleased to have negotiated an agreement that acknowledges the essential services CUPE members provide in Prince George. This deal improves conditions for our members and enhances the services residents rely on daily," stated CUPE 1048 president Karen Welch in the announcement.
Key terms of the agreement include annual wage increases for workers:
- Five per cent general wage increase retroactive to Jan. 1, 2024
- Five per cent increase effective Jan. 1, 2025
- Four per cent increase effective Jan. 1, 2026
The retroactive increase for 2024 has already been factored into the city’s current budget, the city states in its announcement.
"This agreement provides a fair deal for our staff and aligns with recent contracts negotiated in other cities across the province," states city manager Walter Babicz. "I want to thank both bargaining teams for their hard work in securing an agreement that addresses inflationary pressures while ensuring a strong workforce to meet the growing demands for city services."
