B.C. union calls for expanded work-from-home policy amid rising fuel costs

The B.C. General Employees’ Union is urging the provincial government to allow full-time remote work for provincially regulated employees as fuel prices rise, citing financial pressure on workers.

In a statement, the union – which represents about 35,000 public service workers among more than 95,000 members – said a temporary work-from-home policy would help offset costs linked to higher gasoline prices. The increase is tied to global supply concerns amid the ongoing Iran conflict, according to the union.

The union also called on the province to consider additional relief measures for employees who must travel for work and cannot rely on public transit. It said those workers face disproportionate impacts if fuel prices remain elevated.

Union president Paul Finch said expanding remote work could also contribute to reduced emissions and less road congestion across the province.

The B.C. government has not responded to a request for comment. Connect Newsroom contacted the Ministry of Finance for clarification on whether any relief measures or policy changes are under consideration. No response was received by publication time.

The union’s request aligns with a similar call from the Canadian Association of Professional Employees, which has urged governments across Canada to adopt flexible work arrangements based on recommendations from the International Energy Agency.