Federal workers in Lethbridge hit the picket lines

Krysty Thomas, a local executive of The Agriculture Union, said enough was enough.

“We’ve been at the bargaining table for two years and it’s been pretty stalled and there haven’t been a lot of negotiations being made,” said Thomas. “So, we’re here fighting for higher wages, wages that keep up with inflation.”

Thomas adds that workers are also seeking expanded remote work opportunities and improved job security.

She said the Lethbridge contingent of P-SAC includes approximately 300 workers, spanning the Canada Revenue Agency, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, and Employment and Immigration.

According to Thomas, the protest group in Lethbridge has received support from a variety of unions and other interested groups.

“We’re out here working for all workers across Canada,” said Thomas. “A gain for us is a gain for all workers, and I think it’s just important to know that workers can’t wait and it’s been a long time since we’ve seen wage increases [that] are reflective of inflation.”

Both the union and government have warned that labour action will disrupt many federal government services, including slow processing times for income tax filings and movement along international border crossings.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said negotiations have paused, while P-SAC said it was waiting for a better offer before resuming talks.

Federal workers attend a protest in Lethbridge as the Public Service Alliance of Canada and the federal government try to work out a new collective agreement, April 19, 2023. (Photo: Lethbridge News Now)

by David Opinko / Sarah Jones

Federal workers in Lethbridge hit the picket lines

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