We congratulate David Eby and the BC NDP on forming government, securing a third consecutive term. This unprecedented victory marks an important milestone for our province and all workers in BC.

One standout result from the election was in the Vancouver-Langara riding, where many of our members campaigned door-to-door and by phone, reminding other members and the public about what’s at stake. The victory there by 373 votes is a great illustration of the power of collective action.

However you voted in this election, our goals remain the same – to improve the working life of our members and all working people in British Columbia. We will continue to organize more workers, bargain with employers, enforce the collective agreement, and influence the laws that govern our province.

Today’s election results are critical as it has decided who our members in the healthcare sector will bargain with next year. The BC NDP being in power is favourable for our members. In the past several years, they have heavily invested in public healthcare – ended 20 years of privatization, brought over 4,000 hospital workers back to the public sector, attracted more than 700 new family doctors to BC, and more. They’ve also demonstrated that they recognize the importance of protecting workers’ rights through legislative gains. For many workers in BC, they raised the minimum wage by $6, increased worker safety regulations, made it easier for members to form unions by implementing card check, and more.

We will miss outgoing Labour Minister Harry Bains and thank him for his dedication. As we look forward, challenges lie ahead, but the BC NDP gives UFCW 1518 and the labour movement a voice to address these issues head-on. We want this government to know they have our support, and we will keep advocating for affordability, equity, and benefits for workers.

Your chance to get involved and engaged with the issues that matter to you doesn’t stop with this election. Together, we have the power to make big gains and negotiate life-changing contracts for our members.