Talks break off in Metro Vancouver wastewater workers union strike

The union representing more than 600 employees of the Metro Vancouver Regional District says talks have broken off.

Picket lines had gone up on Monday at all five of the region’s wastewater treatment plants — Annacis Island, Iona Island, Lions Gate, Lulu Island, and Northwest Langley — but were taken down a short time later.

Jesse Medeiros, president of the Greater Vancouver Regional District Employees’ Union, says the latest offer was unacceptable.

“This employer is choosing to hold back the general wage increase and the regional trend unless there are concessions given by our union,” he said.

The union says members are taking action after being without a new contract for almost two years.

No further talks are scheduled.

CityNews has reached out to the Metro Vancouver Regional District.