The union representing ferry workers has filed an unfair labour practice complaint against BC Ferries, saying the company tried to lower the union鈥檚 reputation among members.

The B.C. Ferry and Marine Workers鈥� Union filed the complaint through the B.C. Labour Relations Board on Dec. 14, according to an email on behalf of their lawyer Colin Gusikoski at Victory Square Law Office. The complaint alleges BC Ferries was providing union members with a 鈥渟ubstantial benefit鈥� that wasn鈥檛 contained in the collective agreement, specifically housing and accommodation in remote communities.

Union president Eric McNeely told Black Press Media Tuesday (Dec. 19) that it was about a year and a half ago that the union became aware BC Ferries had been providing housing to some union members, as well as a stipend to others in various locations.

McNeely said the union 鈥渁fter really not receiving any information鈥� from BC Ferries, filed a grievance. It was through that process they learned there were more locations where the company had been providing other benefits 鈥渨ithout the knowledge or consent of the union,鈥� the complaint notes.

The union claims that BC Ferries then withdrew its benefits and blamed the union for the removal. It also alleges that BC Ferries divulged confidential discussions to union members 鈥渋n an attempt to further foment distrust against the Union.鈥�

The B.C. Ferry and Marine Workers鈥� Union is seeking several remedies through , including BC Ferries declaring it committed unfair labour practices, an order for $100,000 in damages for bargaining directly with employees and $1 million in damages for defamation.

The union represents about 4,700 regular and casual employees, as well as 100 seasonal employees hired during the summer and peak-demand periods.

In an emailed statement to Black Press Media, BC Ferries said is aware of the complaint and will be responding to it, but 鈥渢here is a limitation to what we can say right now as the matter is now before the Labour Relations Board.鈥�

BC Ferries鈥� statement adds that it is currently in the middle of an arbitration process with the union, which will determine wage adjustment for 2024.

CEO Nicolas Jimenez said the goal through this entire bargaining process is to deliver a good outcome for employees.

鈥淲e recognize the hard work they do everyday and the critical role they play in moving passengers and goods up and down the coast. We鈥檙e looking forward to the arbitration panel鈥檚 decision in the new year and expect it鈥檒l deliver wage improvements that reflect how important our people are to BC Ferries.鈥�

READ MORE: Coastal Renaissance won鈥檛 be sailing over the holidays: BC Ferries