CUPE 4500 members have ratified a new three-year collective agreement with BC Transit that includes wage increases and significant improvements to benefits and contract language.

The two parties reached a tentative agreement on January 14 after nine sessions of bargaining. Members ratified the agreement on Wednesday (January 27).

“We’re very pleased to have reached this agreement, and with so few dates required at the table,” said CUPE 4500 President Rob Woods. “This agreement is good for our members and for the public we serve. That’s a testament to the tone of mutual respect the parties observed throughout bargaining.”

The agreement includes wage increases consistent with the Public Sector Employers’ Council (PSEC) bargaining mandate while also improving shift premiums and language for job security. It also includes significant new language on harassment and bullying, and on various types of leaves.

The agreement runs from January 1, 2021 until December 31, 2023.

CUPE 4500 represents 22 members who work as transit supervisors, control coordinators and lead supervisors for BC Transit in the Capital Regional District.