B.C. names Vince Ready as mediator in 911 call taker dispute
BC labour dispute mediation for 911 call takers enters a critical new phase See how Vince Ready’s role could shape contract talks and avoid strike action
British Columbia Labour Minister Jennifer Whiteside has appointed veteran mediator Vince Ready to help resolve a labour dispute involving 911 emergency call takers.
Ready has been brought in as a special mediator under the province’s labour relations code to assist negotiations between CUPE Local 8911 and EComm, the organization involved in the talks over a new collective agreement.
Whiteside said the mediation started on June 6 and can run for up to 10 days. If the sides do not reach a deal within that period, Ready will be able to issue binding recommendations on the remaining issues. The union, which represents more than 700 emergency communications workers in B.C., had previously issued a 72hour strike notice after months of stalled negotiations.