Royal B.C. Museum Attack: Bear Spray Used on Picketers
- Victoria, British Columbia - On September 18, 2024, picketers at the Royal BC Museum were reportedly attacked with bear spray during a labour dispute with the provincial government.
- According to the BCGEU, several picketers were directly sprayed with bear spray while peacefully protesting outside the museum's main entrance.
- The BCGEU has been engaged in negotiations with the provincial government for several months, seeking a collective agreement that addresses concerns over cost of living, job security, and...
Royal BC Museum Picketers Attacked with Bear spray During Labor dispute
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Victoria, British Columbia – On September 18, 2024, picketers at the Royal BC Museum were reportedly attacked with bear spray during a labour dispute with the provincial government. The incident, which occurred around 9:30 am, involved members of the British Columbia General Employees’ Union (BCGEU) who have been on strike, seeking improved wages and working conditions.
What Happened?
According to the BCGEU, several picketers were directly sprayed with bear spray while peacefully protesting outside the museum’s main entrance. Witnesses described a vehicle approaching the picket line and an individual deploying the spray before quickly leaving the scene. Emergency responders, including paramedics, were dispatched to provide medical attention to those affected. At least six individuals required treatment for the effects of the spray, which causes temporary blindness, skin irritation, and respiratory distress.
The Labour Dispute
The BCGEU has been engaged in negotiations with the provincial government for several months, seeking a collective agreement that addresses concerns over cost of living, job security, and workload. The union represents approximately 33,000 public sector workers across British Columbia, including those at the Royal BC Museum. Negotiations stalled in August 2024, leading to a full-scale strike that has impacted various government services.
Police Inquiry Underway
The Victoria Police Department (VicPD) is actively investigating the bear spray attack as an assault. Investigators are reviewing security footage and interviewing witnesses to identify the perpetrator and the vehicle involved. As of September 18, 2024, no arrests have been made, but VicPD has stated they are pursuing several promising leads. Anyone with details regarding the incident is urged to contact the VicPD at 250-995-7135.
Safety Concerns and Union Response
The BCGEU has condemned the attack in the strongest possible terms, calling it a hazardous escalation of the labour dispute.Union president Stephanie Smith stated the incident demonstrates a disregard for the safety and well-being of workers exercising their right to strike. The union is demanding increased security measures at all picket lines to prevent future incidents. They have also called on the provincial government to return to the bargaining table and negotiate a fair and reasonable agreement.
Impact on Museum Operations
The Royal BC Museum remains closed to the public due to the ongoing strike. The museum’s management has stated they are cooperating fully with the police investigation and are committed to ensuring the safety of all staff and visitors once operations resume.The museum’s website provides updates on the closure and anticipated reopening date, which remains uncertain pending the resolution of the labour dispute.