Delta Serves Notice to Withdraw from GVRD Labour Relations Bureau

At the April 19, 2010 In-Camera meeting, Delta Council endorsed the following motion:

"THAT Delta provide Metro Vancouver with 24 months notice of its intention to withdraw from the labour relations functions of the GVRD, Labour Relations Bureau."

Subsequently on April 21, 2010 Delta provided Metro Vancouver with written confirmation of Delta's 24 months notice of its intention to withdraw. The Labour Relations (LR) Bureau provides such services as collective bargaining, job evaluation and classification, research and analysis as well as consultation regarding Human Rights and Worksafe BC issues.

As a member of the Labour Relations function for more than 35 years, Delta's decision to withdraw has not been made easily or without much discussion and analysis. Delta places a high value on its relationship with local unions and feels that the lack of autonomy achieved through membership in the LR Bureau may potentially damage this relationship. Additionally, it is felt that changes need to be made within the LR function to address concerns of individual members.

It is hoped that within the 24 month withdrawal period changes are made to warrant the reconsideration of Delta's withdrawal notice, however it was important that the notice be served so that the waiting period can begin. Should services improve and more flexibility be achieved, Council can decide to terminate its notice at any time before the end of the 24 month notice.

In the meantime, the Labour Relations Bureau will continue to provide those services to Delta and Delta will continue to remain a member and work within the Bureau mandate.

For further information, please e-mail Corporate Planning at corporate-planning@corp.delta.bc.ca.