Bulletin
BCITSA: Update on ensuring all roles have a right to union representation
September 22, 2026
To: All MoveUP members at BCITSA
Hello MoveUP members working at BCITSA,
You may recall at a past union meeting that we talked about filing an application with the BC Labour Relations Board (LRB) to deal with several contested roles in your workplace.
A contested role means a job position that we believe should be part of our union, but the employer disagrees.
We are working hard to ensure your right to join our union is protected and that you have representation and the rights and entitlements that we have negotiated for you in your collective agreement.
This is an important fight for us and that’s why we have committed significant time and resources to put strong, evident-based arguments to the LRB.
Why is the employer trying to block certain positions from joining MoveUP?
Generally, managers, or workers whose role provides them with access to confidential information related to labour relations or personal matters, are considered unsuitable to be part of the bargaining unit.
Your employer is making the case that several of these positions fall under that description.
When the LRB makes their decision, they consider whether:
- The person in that role decides whether to hire, fire, or discipline employees
- The person in that role has input in the employer’s labour relations
You can find out more about how the LRB makes their determinations here.
Timeline
We submitted our evidence-based and spent several days through July and August at the LRB. We anticipate the LRB will issue their decision in mid-November.
While we are waiting for the decision, we want to thank everyone who has been involved in this process. We are committed to make your working conditions better, and ensuring everyone who has the right to belong to our union can do so, with your support.
As soon as we receive the board decision, we will provide an update to you.
In solidarity,
Kai Sharpe
Union Representative