BCGEU files complaint against Coast Tsimshian Academy

“There is no question, in our view, that these two popular teachers were terminated because of their support for unionization.” -- BCGEU President Darryl Walker outlining the reason for a recent application to the Canada Industrial Relations Board by the BCGEU, over recent unionization attempts at the Lax Kw'alaams educational facility 


The recent labour troubles at Lax Kw'alaams Academy have moved forward a drive towards unionization of the staff at the educational facility and with recent events still part of the discussion, the BCGEU has now moved the file towards the Canada Industrial Relations Board.

The BCGEU website offers up details of the union's recent application to the CIRB, objecting to the recent firing of two employees at the school, a move which the BCGEU believes took place because  "the employer was convinced they supported unionization", which they advise is contrary to the laws of British Columbia and Canada.

The BCGEU is asking that the CIRB rule that reinstatement is required for the two teachers in question, one of whom was serving in the capacity of vice principal at the time of dismissal.

The BCGEU having examined the job description of the vice principal, believes that there were no management powers in place at the time of dismissal, making the vice principal a legitimate member of the union.

According to the BCGEU website the Academy is contesting the unionization drive for certification at the school and with that in mind, the union is asking the Labour board to direct the employer "not to terminate or discipline any other employee for supporting unionization".