This FAQ will be updated as new information is received. Please check back for the latest updates.
Who is the IBEW 213?
The IBEW 213 is the union that represents a specific set of workers at FortisBC, namely those working in generation, transmission and distribution of both gas and electric. IBEW stands for International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers.
Are the FortisBC IBEW 213 members going on strike?
Not currently. IBEW remains engaged with the company to try to achieve a fair collective agreement for its members.
If there is nothing for us to worry about right now, why are you telling us about all this?
It’s important for us to be proactive and prepared should job action occur. We want to make sure that all of you have the information you need and understand what’s expected of you during a third-party picket.
Why do we have to be on the picket line if MoveUP members are not the ones on strike?
As union members, solidarity with fellow workers, in particular other union members, is one of our fundamental principles.
It is also written in MoveUP’s Constitution, which you agree to adhere to when you become a MoveUP member as a condition of your employment, that we respect the legal picket lines of other unions.
How does supporting the IBEW benefit us as MoveUP members?
Even though this strike is IBEW’s, our members stand to gain in the long run when we support their strike.
By supporting the IBEW members, it demonstrates to Fortis that they cannot divide and conquer the workforce, and it demonstrates to the IBEW members that we have their back. If the roles are reversed and we find ourselves needing to be on the picket line to fight for important gains for our members, the IBEW members will reciprocate and support us as well.
This strength in numbers, enough to disrupt Fortis’ operations, is fundamental to convincing Fortis to go back to the bargaining table to negotiate a fair, reasonable contract that would be acceptable for workers.
Additionally, the more gains and improved working conditions that IBEW achieves will help us when we go to the bargaining table. We will know what Fortis has agreed to with IBEW members on various issues and we can use those as starting points for when we go into bargaining if they are improvements over what we presently have in our collective agreement.
I have a question related to strike pay / being on the picket line / how long the strike will last, etc.
If we receive word that a strike is imminent, we will communicate specific and detailed information to you on those important issues ahead of time.
Even with a successful strike mandate, the IBEW members cannot go on strike until they have provided 72-hour notice.
As with any job action, it is impossible to predict how long it will go. In this instance, as this is IBEW’s job action, we do not know fully what their plan is at the bargaining table or for their potential job action but we are in close communication with them so we will provide you with that ongoing information as the situation unfolds.
Direct deposit available for strike / respecting picket line pay
We can make direct deposit payments to you so you can receive your strike/picket pay sooner.
To receive payment by direct deposit, we will need you to provide your banking information to us.
Please fill out the form at moveuptogether.ca/deposit.
Our Accounting Department will follow up with you if they have any questions.
If you do not wish to sign up for direct deposit, you will receive your strike/picket pay by cheque.
