The union representing British Columbia's 911 operators has voted overwhelmingly in favor of strike action, with 95% of members supporting the move. The vote, conducted by CUPE 8911, highlights critical issues including staffing shortages, excessive workload, and the long-term viability of the province's emergency communication system.
Key Concerns Behind the Strike Vote
Workers, who handle initial emergency calls and dispatch services across B.C., are demanding a new collective agreement that includes fair wages reflecting the complexity of their roles. They also seek increased staffing levels, improved recruitment efforts, and better health and wellness support programs.
Donald Grant, president of CUPE 8911, emphasized the urgency of the situation. "This vote reflects the reality frontline staff are facing every day. Our members are under increasing pressure, and they need an agreement that supports them and stabilizes the system," he said. "Investing in workers is investing in public safety and a system people can rely on in critical moments."
Potential Strike Not Immediate
Despite the strong vote, a strike is not imminent. The union describes strike action as a "last resort" and is currently negotiating with the provincial government over an essential services order. Once that process concludes, workers could legally strike if no agreement is reached.
More than 700 911 operators, call takers, dispatchers, IT, and support professionals are employed by Emergency Communications Professionals of B.C., with major centers in Vancouver, Burnaby, and Saanich. These workers handle 99% of all 911 calls in the province, collaborating with 33 police agencies and 40 fire departments.
Record Call Volumes and Expired Agreement
E-Comm operators answered over two million 911 calls in 2025, with an average answer speed of one second—among the fastest globally. Their previous three-year collective bargaining agreement, which expired on December 31, 2025, included annual wage increases of 4.25%, 3.75%, and 3.5%.
Grant stressed the need for employer commitment: "The results of this vote make it clear that workers need more support. That support is critical to maintaining a stable, reliable 9-1-1 system. With negotiations resuming Friday, we’re ready to move forward and reach a deal, but we need to see that same commitment from the employer."
