CUPE BC’s finances continue to strengthen, with healthy surpluses across all funds. These surpluses have allowed investments in services, member support, and solidarity work to grow.
In his annual address to convention Thursday morning, CUPE BC Secretary-Treasurer Tony Rebelo gave an update on the Division’s financial outlook and the operational work that helps translate members’ priorities into action.
“Budgets are inherently political. They align resources with our priorities ensuring we have the funds to back up our demands, support members when they take a stand, and achieve wins beyond the bargaining table,” Rebelo said.
Rebelo told delegates that building a strong, resilient financial reserve is critical to meeting the needs of locals and members both now and into the future, underscoring that a strong Defence Fund is more than a line on a financial statement—it’s a promise to have members’ backs.
“It is a commitment we make to all of you, as local leaders, that you can assure your members that the resources they need will be there when they take a stand for themselves and each other,” said Rebelo.
“Our strike fund is a statement to members, the public, and employers, that we have the capacity to take strong positions and back them up with long-lasting action.”
Having now surpassed the goal of $15 million in savings, a new goal of $20 million has been set.
CUPE BC has also expanded services and supports for members. The Community Events Van continues to be in high demand and visit communities across B.C., the Secretary Treasurer’s Academy was recently offered for the first time, and additional features have been added to the Online Per Cap Program including improved reporting tools, easier access to payment history, expanded filtering, and a direct payment feature with no added cost to locals.
While noting these successes, Rebelo emphasized the importance of remaining prepared for potential challenges and continuing to plan for the future.
“We have made exceptional progress in the past ten years, and this is the credit of everyone involved in our finances, including all of you in this room, who have supported the smart and strategic approach to building our financial capacity,” Rebelo told delegates.
“Every resolution, campaign, and priority shapes our financial future, and is influenced by the financial resources we can bring to the table. We are in a strong position to take on the challenges ahead, and to win. And if we continue to build on the work of those who came before, matching our financial potential with the organizing power and dedication of the people in this room, there is no limit to what we can achieve.”