For Immediate Release - Langley, BC

Business Manager and Financial Secretary Cody Gatzke formally introduced a new Strike Policy specific to members employed under the Master Line Agreement during the Local’s January Executive Board meeting.

The policy outlines a clear, structured framework for job action should collective bargaining reach an impasse. Gatzke emphasized that strike action remains a last resort and that the policy exists to ensure preparedness and accountability.

The policy reinforces that no strike action will occur without a clear mandate from the membership. It also outlines expectations for member conduct and the support available during job action. These include:

• Guidelines for picket line behavior

• Access to strike pay and member assistance

• Clear roles for union leadership

The goal, according to Gatzke, is to ensure no member is left uncertain about their responsibilities or their support during a strike or lockout.

Given that the Master Line Agreement covers more than five hundred members across British Columbia, employed by over forty different line contracting companies, the policy is specifically designed to address the unique challenges that would arise should job action become necessary.

Preparedness, Not Provocation

Gatzke stressed that the introduction of the Strike Policy is about preparedness rather than provocation. By setting clear rules in advance, the policy strengthens the union’s bargaining position.

“We’ve been close to a labour dispute in each of the last two rounds of bargaining,” Gatzke said. “This policy looks ahead. It gives our members confidence that if negotiations break down, we are prepared with a plan that protects them and the integrity of our union.”

The Master Line Strike Policy will be shared with members through Unit meetings and will be available online for those who have an active account.

Media Contact

For more information regarding the Master Line Strike Policy, members and media are encouraged to contact:

Cody Gatzke

Business Manager and Financial Secretary

(604) 515-3240

cgatzke@ibew258.bc.ca