In a bold move, public service workers in British Columbia are ramping up their strike activities. Following a day of minimal action, the B.C. General Employees’ Union (BCGEU) has announced plans to establish multiple picket lines starting Tuesday.

Originally, the union had set its sights on staging protests at the warehouses of the B.C. Liquor and Cannabis Distribution Branch on Monday, but those plans fell through. However, the memory of last year's strike looms large, when similar pickets sparked a short-lived alcohol shortage affecting restaurants and bars across the province.

The union's strategy is clear: escalate the job action to compel the provincial government to present a more favorable wage proposal. BCGEU leaders are particularly focused on drawing attention to the ongoing negotiations that currently sit at a standstill.

For Tuesday, pickets are scheduled at the Surrey Pretrial Centre and various government buildings throughout B.C., including notable sites in Victoria, Surrey, and Prince George, as well as the Royal BC Museum. This marks a significant expansion of their efforts.

BCGEU President Paul Finch stated, "It’s predominantly government operations that have been impacted by this strike," emphasizing that the protest aims for a visible impact on public services.

The union is demanding an 8.25% wage increase over two years, while the provincial government has countered with a 3.5% offer. As of now, the government's response has been lackluster, failing to provide an enhanced salary proposal.

Stay tuned for updates as this situation continues to unfold.