Metro Vancouver workers call off full-scale strike after progress made in talks

East Hastings Street on the Downtown Eastside of Vancouver, on Thursday, June 13, 2024. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Darryl Dyck

VANCOUVER — Metro Vancouver outside workers say they won’t launch a full-scale strike after “significant movement” in talks with the regional district.

The union representing about 750 workers says in a statement that its bargaining committee is reporting back to members “in seeking a mandate.”

Union president Jesse Medeiros says all job action is temporarily on pause while negotiators look to reach a tentative deal.

The union threatened strike action Monday, saying little progress was being made in talks mediated at the BC Labour Relations Board over the last few days.

Workers had set up pickets at regional parks, water treatment facilities and construction yards in an attempt to push for a resolution.

The two sides have been without a contract for 18 months.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published July 14, 2026.