VANCOUVER — Approximately 27,000 community health workers in British Columbia have overwhelmingly approved a new four-year collective agreement with the provincial government. The Community Bargaining Association (CBA), which represents seven unions, announced that over 91% of its members voted in favor of the deal. The agreement covers essential workers in home support, emergency shelters, and supportive housing across the province.
The ratification comes after intense negotiations between the unions and the Health Employers Association of British Columbia (HEABC). The previous contract expired nearly a year ago, leading to months of dialogue before a tentative agreement was finally reached in February. The newly approved contract will take effect on April 1, 2026, and is set to expire on March 31, 2029.
Under the terms of the new contract, workers will receive a 3% wage increase each year. Union Vice President Scott De Long noted that besides the pay bumps, the agreement places a heavy emphasis on workplace safety and worker-friendly scheduling, which have been major points of concern for frontline staff. De Long praised the deal as a significant victory for workers who have been operating under the stress of staffing shortages and high demands.
