Steelworkers Issue Strike Notice to Highland Valley Copper Mine

United Steelworkers Local 7619 issued a 72-hour strike notice to Teck Resources Limited's Highland Valley Copper operation near Logan Lake, British Columbia, on October 20. The notice follows the September 30 expiration of the previous collective agreement and unsuccessful negotiations regarding wages, pensions, and staffing shortages. A strike mandate vote showed 100% support from the 944 participating members.

Strike action is scheduled to begin at 8 a.m. on Saturday, October 24, if an agreement is not reached. During talks on Tuesday, Teck presented a revised monetary offer and withdrew one concession, but the union maintains the proposal remains insufficient. Teck Resources stated it is committed to a fair and reasonable agreement and has established contingency plans to maintain safety and environmental management during any labor action.

The dispute occurs as Teck Resources and Anglo American PLC work to finalize a multibillion-dollar merger announced last year. The union, representing approximately 1,200 workers, continues to push for a contract that recognizes worker contributions and addresses the company's ability to retain skilled tradespeople.