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.
What does it mean that the IBEW 213 has filed an Essential Service application at the Labour Relations Board?
Essential services are critical public services that must remain available even during a strike or lockout situation. By filing for an Essential Service application, the IBEW 213 is asking for clarification on what those roles are. The Labour Relations Board will make that decision. Some of those roles may also include ones that are being performed by MoveUP members.
If a MoveUP member works in a role that is deemed as an essential service, it means they would continue working as normal even if there was a picket line set up.
A mediator is scheduled to meet with IBEW 213 and FortisBC on September 2, 4, and 9 to define essential services per the Labour Relations Code.
What should I do if my manager asks me to show them how to do my job?
Providing an overview of your job tasks, process documents, checklists, etc., falls within the work that the company can legally order you to do. If you refuse, you risk being disciplined for insubordination. You should comply with these requests but inform your manager(s) if it will interfere with your normal workload.
If we have to be on the picket line, will we get paid?
If you are unable to work because there is a picket line set up (this includes both in office work and remote work), while you will not receive your regular pay from your employer, our union has a defence fund set up to support members who are out on strike or supporting a third-party strike.
How much picket pay will we receive?
Based on our defence fund’s current status, MoveUP’s strike pay is $340 per week ($68 per day) with no waiting period. Our national union, COPE SEPB, also provides $380 per week ($76 per day) but there is an eight-day waiting period before it comes into effect.
MoveUP will do our best to match your normal pay schedule for picket pay. To be eligible to receive picket pay for a particular day, you must attend the picket line for four hours per day.
What happens if I have pre-approved time off when a picket line goes up?
Typically, pre-approved vacation or paid day off time will be paid as usual by your employer. However, so we can keep track of it in case your employer does not fulfill their obligation, we ask if a picket line goes up that you provide us with a list of any annual vacation, paid days off, or other approved leave as soon as possible. We also recommend, in preparation, you ensure that all your preapproved leave is in writing and not just a verbal agreement.
If you have a pre-approved leave including vacation (AV), paid day off (PDO), earned day off (EDO), long-term disability (LTD), or sick leave, you will not receive picket pay for those days.
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.
How long could a strike last? How can we be prepared?
As with any job action, it is impossible to predict how long it will go. MoveUP will continue to provide support as long as it takes, but you should also be prepared as much as possible just in case of a long strike.
This includes ensuring your personal finances and child care requirements are in place, and preparing for the possibility that your employer may request for you to return any company equipment you have in your possession including computers and swipe cards. They may also disable your company phone and email access as well.
MoveUP will keep on top of any issues that may affect your benefits or pensions and will keep you informed as we move along.
The Vancouver & District Labour Council has put together a Survival Manual for Workers on Strike or Locked Out that contains helpful tips and resources to ensure you can be as prepared as possible.
