VICTORIA— CUPE National President Mark Hancock is calling on B.C. locals to make workplace safety a top priority, saying violence on the job is a growing risk for members.
Speaking Thursday at the CUPE BC convention in Victoria, Hancock opened by acknowledging the tragedy in Tumbler Ridge and said it underscored the need for stronger supports for public-sector workers, including front-line emergency services.
“These events remind us of the emotional toll our work can take,” Hancock said. “They also remind us why solidarity and strong public services matter in our communities.”
Hancock said preventing workplace violence and strengthening psychological health and safety protections will be among CUPE’s priorities in 2026, which the union has designated the Year of Health and Safety.
Hancock also pointed to international conflicts and trade tensions as hazards for workers struggling with the rising cost of living. He accused Prime Minister Mark Carney of failing to prioritize workers and of focusing on job cuts. “Carney’s Liberals are not on the side of public services,” he said.
He also criticized the B.C. Conservatives, accusing the party of focusing on divisive social issues rather than affordability and public services. “No matter who the B.C. Conservatives elect as their next leader, they will try to rip up our collective agreements, privatize health care and cut services,” he said.
Hancock acknowledged recent provincial bargaining in B.C. has been difficult for CUPE members.
“Sometimes friends need to share hard truths with each other. It is not acceptable that our members were put through the wringer to get the same deal as other provincial workers. That is a message we continue to deliver to this NDP provincial government,” Hancock said, who previously served as CUPE BC president before being elected National President in 2015.
With municipal elections expected this fall, Hancock urged members to stay involved in politics and to help elect progressive candidates to councils and school boards. He said delegates should take the message back to their locals and keep pressing governments to prioritize safer workplaces and public services.
“We saw a significant shift to the right on many councils across B.C. last term. It’s up to us and our allies to stop that trend this time around,” he said.
