News releases

Lanzinger, Ekman re-elected to lead 500,000-member BC Federation of Labour

December 1, 2016
VANCOUVER-President Irene Lanzinger and Secretary-Treasurer Aaron Ekman were re-elected for two-year terms to lead the 500,000-member BC Federation of Labour. “Together with Aaron, I’m proud to be able lead a dynamic and progressive organization with so many members who share a... more

Labour launches Better Can Happen Here campaign to bring political change in May’s BC election

November 30, 2016
VANCOUVER-The BC labour movement today launched its Better Can Happen Here political action campaign to elect a new government that will make life better for working families in next May’s pivotal provincial election. “Government can be such a positive force for change for... more

Horgan pledge for tougher safety protections for asbestos removal workers will bring much needed change says BCFED

November 29, 2016
VANCOUVER-A commitment today by BC NDP leader John Horgan to get tough with asbestos removal contractors will go a long way to end the inaction by Victoria that has put workers’ health and safety at risk, says BC Federation of Labour President Irene Lanzinger “Mandatory licensing... more

BCFED’s Lanzinger keynote convention address makes case for political change in May BC election

November 28, 2016
VANCOUVER- BC Federation of Labour President Irene Lanzinger opened her organization’s 57th Convention Monday with a provocative speech that prosecuted the record of the Clark government and made the case for political change in next May’s provincial election. Lanzinger targeted... more

BC Federation of Labour convention begins Monday in Vancouver

November 25, 2016
MEDIA ADVISORY November 25, 2016 Next May’s provincial election will figure prominently when an expected 1,500 union members from all parts of the province gather in Vancouver for the week-long 57th Convention of the BC Federation of Labour starting November 28. What: BC Federation... more

Statement by BC Federation of Labour President Irene Lanzinger on the US election result

November 9, 2016
In what will emerge as uncertain times, there is a cautionary message that needs to be heeded in the US election results. The unexpected triumph of Donald Trump rests on the deep seated desire for change by many Americans—including working people. And while it remains to be seen what the outcome... more

Growth in part-time, precarious work a warning sign in October job numbers report

November 4, 2016
VANCOUVER - BC had a modestly better month for jobs numbers released by Stats Can Friday morning, but continued disproportionate growth in lower-paying part-time employment, and a big jump in the unemployment rate are cause for concern, says the BC Federation of Labour. “The trend... more

Fine a slap on the wrist for employer whose negligence caused death of young worker

Vancouver - A recent court ruling in a case of criminal negligence in the tragic workplace death of a young Mission-area worker is a slap on the wrist for the employer whose failure to provide basic safety training caused the tragedy. Kelsey Ann Kristian died after working just two... more

Premier Clark’s firing of VSB criticized by BCFED

October 17, 2016
BC Federation of Labour President Irene Lanzinger made this comment today on the firing of the Vancouver School Board by the Christy Clark government. “This is a classic diversion by the Liberal government,” says BC Federation of Labour President Irene Lanzinger. “Chronically underfund schools for... more

Fight for $15 Minimum Wage Campaign Launches New BC Election Video

October 14, 2016 | Minimum Wage
Vancouver – With the provincial election just seven months away, the BC Federation of Labour is releasing a new 30-second video today urging voters to elect a government that will implement a $15 per hour minimum wage for all workers. The video highlights the financial challenges... more