911 operators issue 72-hour strike notice

Over 700 emergency communications professionals are one step away from a legal strike. CUPE 8911 issued a 72-hour notice Friday after months of negotiations with E-Comm 9-1-1 failed to produce a deal.

The union and employer have spent more than 20 days in meetings since bargaining began in November. Last month, members voted 95 per cent in favour of strike action, clearing the path for this formal notice. The union says they've now reached impasse.

The main sticking points: fair wages, safe staffing levels, and health and wellness supports. Union president Donald Grant framed the moment as urgent: "British Columbians expect that when they call 9-1-1, they'll get the help they need quickly. But right now, the people who answer those calls are being pushed to their breaking point."

CUPE is asking the provincial Minister of Labour to appoint a special mediator. The timing carries added weight — wildfire season and summer demand peak are approaching, periods when the 911 system runs at high intensity. Operators will be in legal strike position as of 3:29 p.m. on June 8. An Essential Service Order is in place, which means some level of emergency service must be maintained if a strike proceeds.

The next 72 hours will determine whether mediation can bridge the gap.