Media Release: Pearson College UWC Faculty Vote Overwhelmingly in Favor of Job Action

September 23, 2024 (Victoria) – Members of the Professional Employees Association (PEA) at Pearson College UWC have voted overwhelmingly in favor of job action, with 96% supporting this decisive step. This significant vote underscores the faculty’s commitment to securing a fair and competitive compensation package.

Brett Harper, Labour Relations Officer and lead negotiator for the PEA, emphasized the necessity of this action: “The faculty at Pearson College are vital to the college’s mission and they deserve compensation that reflects their expertise and the rising cost of living. The results of this strike vote demonstrate their resolve to achieve a fair first collective agreement.”

The PEA became certified to represent the 26 teachers at the pre-university Metchosin college in June 2023 and commenced bargaining in November of the same year. Despite ongoing negotiations, progress stalled last week following mediation efforts that failed to address critical issues, the most important being wages. Faculty at Pearson College make less than their counterparts in BC public and independent schools.

“The disparity in pay experienced by our members, exacerbated by the pandemic, must be addressed,” Harper stated. “We remain committed to returning to the negotiating table, but Pearson College must present an offer that appropriately values its faculty.”

Pearson College’s faculty members are instrumental in teaching a diverse array of subjects, from climate action and biology to history and Spanish. Their work is pivotal in shaping the next generation of leaders and thinkers. For more information on the contributions of these dedicated professionals, click here.

About the PEA

The Professional Employees Association is a labour union for professionals. Formed in 1974 to
represent the Government Licensed Professionals employed in the BC public service, the union has grown to represent professionals in the education, legal, union and health care sectors.

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Media Contact:
Jordana Whetter, Communications Director
jwhetter@pea.org
Phone: 250-385-8791 ext. 210