British Columbia’s provincial meat inspectors will be classified as essential workers during ongoing job action, Agriculture Minister Lana Popham announced Thursday.
The designation came through negotiations with the BC General Employees’ Union as labour disruptions continue across the province’s public sector.
Agreement protects food supply chain
The essential worker status ensures meat processing facilities can continue operating without interruption, according to Popham. The minister said abattoirs play a critical role in supporting farmers and ranchers throughout BC.
“I am very pleased that we have been able to successfully work with the BCGEU to have provincial meat inspectors classified as essential workers during this round of job action,” Popham said in a statement.
The agreement allows meat processing to continue while protecting public health standards that require government inspection.
Minister thanks union for collaboration
Popham credited the BCGEU with working cooperatively to reach the agreement. She said the designation helps safeguard human health and support animal welfare while ensuring farmers and producers can continue operations.
“I am grateful for the BCGEU’s collaboration and willingness to work with us to safeguard human health, support animal welfare and support the farmers and producers of this province,” the minister said.
The essential worker classification applies specifically to provincial meat inspectors working in abattoirs across British Columbia.
