SURREY—BC SPCA workers at the Education and Adoption Centre and at the Good Shepherd Barn voted to join CUPE 1622 in a Labour Board vote counted on January 27. The two groups work at the same location but in different facilities.
“This will allow us to bring in and help more animals,” said CUPE 1622 President Rhonda Ott. “I’m excited that these workers are joining us.” Ott explained that many workers at the BC SPCA had worked at the previous Surrey SPCA unionized site, but the contract was not renewed. Years later the BC SPCA re-opened in a different location.
Ott pointed out that the work is often challenging, as workers deal with animals that have been removed because of cruelty or abuse.
“Our members are committed to protecting and improving the quality of life of domestic and farm animals,” said Ott.
CUPE Local 1622 welcomes nine members from the adoption centre who work with small animals and cats, and four members who work at the barn with livestock including horses, sheep, lamas and fowl. They all work with abused, injured and neglected animals providing urgent care, rehabilitation and adopting them to new guardians who provide a safe and healthy home.
CUPE 1622 represents approximately 115 unionized SPCA workers in the Lower Mainland and Fraser Valley.
