Courtenay, BC — Following several months of negotiations and with the support of a mediator from the Labour Relations Board, the Comox Valley Regional District and the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) Local 556 have successfully ratified a new three-year collective agreement. The agreement reflects a shared commitment to fiscal responsibility and recognition of the valuable contributions CVRD employees make to the delivery of quality public services.
In an environment marked by economic uncertainty and tightened financial constraints, both bargaining teams worked diligently to reach a fair and balanced settlement. The agreement provides wage adjustments that acknowledge cost-of-living pressures while maintaining fiscal sustainability for taxpayers.
The new collective agreement is retroactive to January 1, 2025, and is in place until December 31, 2027. It includes general wage increases of $2.00/hr. in the first year, 4 percent in the second year, and 5 percent in the third year. The parties also agreed to benefit enhancements that address health and wellbeing, and improvements that strengthen clarity and consistency within the collective agreement language.
“We are grateful for the constructive dialogue and collaboration shown by both bargaining teams throughout this process,” said James Warren, Chief Administrative Officer. “This agreement ensures our employees are supported and recognized for their vital work serving our community every day, while also balancing responsible management of public resources. We appreciate the dedication of our workforce and look forward to continuing this positive working relationship.”
“CUPE 556 members take pride in delivering public services throughout this region,” said Sonya Jenssen, president of CUPE 556. “We’re pleased to have a new agreement in place that not only recognizes the vital services our members provide but also ensures residents and businesses continue to receive stable, high-quality services.”
The Comox Valley Regional District is a partnership of three electoral areas and three municipalities operating on the unceded traditional territory of the K’ómoks First Nation, the traditional keepers of the land. The members of the regional district work collaboratively on providing sustainable services for the benefit of the diverse urban and rural areas of the Comox Valley.
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CVRD Media Contact:
James Warren
CVRD Chief Administrative Officer
250-334-6007