Workers at Highland Valley Copper mine issue 72-hour strike notice

The United Steelworkers Local 7619 said the notice was issued at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday (Oct. 20), and they will be in a a legal strike position at 8:00 a.m. Saturday. The union adds it will communicate further details directly to members.

“Our members sent an unmistakable message that they are united and prepared to stand up for the contract they deserve,” said Kyle Wolff, the president of the USW Local 7619, said in a statement. “We have worked hard to find solutions at the bargaining table, but our members are not prepared to accept concessions or settle for an agreement that doesn’t recognize their contributions.”

According to the union, 100 per cent of the 944 members who voted over two days last week were in favour of the strike action.

“A 100 per cent strike vote speaks volumes about the frustration on the worksite and the determination of our members. We want a fair deal and we are prepared to do what it takes to get one,” Wolff added.

USW Local 7619 represents more than 1,200 employees at Highland Valley Copper, the largest open-pit copper mine in Canada. Workers have been without a contract since Sept. 30 after their previous five-year contract – which was ratified following a strike vote in 2022 – expired.

In a statement, the union alleges it has raised serious concerns about Teck Resources’ ability to attract and retain skilled workers, particularly in the trades, noting that employees continue to leave the Logan Lake-based operation.

The union noted Teck reported $854 million in second-quarter profits, as copper prices averaged US$6.05 per pound. The company is also moving ahead with a major expansion project to extend the life of the mine from 2028 to 2046.

The Steelworkers say it has put forward proposals to address staffing shortages, improve wages and strengthen pensions to ensure Highland Valley Copper remains a competitive employer as B.C.’s mining industry grows.

“Highland Valley Copper needs to be investing in the workers who keep this operation running, not asking them to give things up,” Wolff, who declined an interview because of the strike notice, added. “Competitive wages attract skilled workers and strong pensions help keep them.”

“Our bargaining committee has brought forward real solutions to the challenges facing this operation. The company needs to take those concerns seriously and come back to the table prepared to negotiate a fair agreement.”

According to the union, bargaining will continue during this 72-hour notice period in a bid to reach a negotiated settlement. It added a revised offer presented by Teck Resources on Tuesday “[fell] short of members’ expectations,” adding other concession demands remained on the table.

“The union remains committed to reaching a negotiated agreement and avoiding a labour disruption, but it is preparing for strike action should the employer fail to address members’ concerns,” the statement from USW7619 said.

“Workers will continue reporting for their regularly scheduled shifts until further notice.”

In a statement, Teck Resources confirmed it was been informed about the strike notice, but it remains business as usual at the mine at this time.

“Operations at HVC continue and contingency plans are in place to maintain safety and environmental management during labour action,” the statement said. “Teck is committed to reaching a collective agreement that is fair and reasonable for employees and supports the ongoing viability of the operation.”