Bulletin
Addressing ICBC’s comments on workload in a recent Global news article
December 23, 2024
To: All MoveUP members at ICBC
On December 11, 2024, a news article and video were published by Global News – Surrey man had his truck stolen for 2 weeks. It’s been stuck with ICBC for 6 | Globalnews.ca
In the article, ICBC responded to a customer complaint related to a delayed vehicle claim. The comments ICBC made included that the claim delay was due to “an error made by staff” and that “there are no claim backlogs or staffing shortages”.
I understand that, when customers go to the media, ICBC has a duty to protect its reputation and mitigate harm to the organization; however, blaming our members is not appropriate.
I took the time to reach out to ICBC to discuss this item in good faith. We had a thoughtful discussion addressing ICBC items in the media, consulting each other, and trying to address issues internally as the first avenue.
As I have spoken and met with ICBC leaders in the last few months, a common ground I have found is we all feel the strongest part of ICBC is our people. That is why we must highlight the dedication, hard work, and exceptional customer service our members provide to British Columbians every day, both internally and externally.
I could write to you and throw mud at ICBC because of their statements in the article but I would rather tell you what we will do to make progress on the underlying issues.
Firstly, I have already spoken to ICBC about this specific media article and their response, including what can be done to ensure this does not occur again.
Secondly, we are in the process of launching workload complaints for various jobs within ICBC to find customer-focused solutions to workload issues via Letter of Understanding 18 (pages 171-173 of our collective agreement).
Thirdly, I want to recognize Herbert Magana for his excellent work and passion for tackling workload issues through his new role as our workload coordinator. Sara Colliss, who is one of our fantastic union representatives, is providing us with tremendous support and knowledge for this project. All the members who have stepped up to be on a workload committee have sent in their workload complaints and advocated for changes that will improve both our working conditions and the services we provide to British Columbians.
Lastly, I want to stress that now is a great time to get involved. Whether you are interested in becoming a job steward, supporting our workload committees, or getting involved in your local occupational health and safety committee, now is the time to get involved and create the change you want to see in your workplace. Feel free to reach out at dossinsky@moveuptogether.ca.
In solidarity,
Dimitri Ossinsky
Vice-President, ICBC
