Members of AUPE rallied in front of the provincial building in Medicine Hat over the noon hour on Wednesday. Jesse Gill/CHAT News

By Jesse Gill

LABOUR

VIDEO: AUPE members set to review result of enhanced mediation with province

Aug 28, 2025 | 7:29 AM

Provincial employees in Medicine Hat held a rally at the provincial building downtown over the noon hour on Wednesday.

A strike action vote in May, had support from over 90 percent of the Alberta Union of Provincial Employees who had their say.

The 120 days to exercise the right to strike would end in early September.

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Late in the rally, news came that members will receive the outcome of the enhanced mediation process.

AUPE vice president Curtis Jackson said telephone town halls will take place on Thursday at noon and 6 p.m. to inform members and that the rally was about solidarity.

“It’s about bringing our members together, knowing that if we move forward, we’re doing it together. And if, unfortunately, we are at a place where the members say no, we want to go on strike, then we’re ready for that too,” Jackson said.

“I’m hopeful that enhanced mediation got us somewhere. he added.

“I do know it’s concluded, and we’re excitedly awaiting the outcome.”

Jackson said seeing increases in wages has been the biggest sticking point.

“We’re about 20% behind where we were a decade ago as far as spending power. And that’s just because our wages haven’t increased to match the cost of living increases,” Jackson said.

“We do have members that I know personally across the province, maybe not in Medicine Hat, that had to refinance their home in 2022. And they couldn’t qualify for their own home that they’ve owned for 10 years because the mortgage rates changed,” he added.

“Because the cost of living increased, they were forced to downsize. These are things that shouldn’t happen to people that are full-time public employees of the government of Alberta.”

Over a year and a half into negotiations things have gotten closer according to Jackson.

“I do know that throughout bargaining and throughout mediation, the numbers have risen somewhat. And I’m hopeful that this outcome shows us that our members are being taken seriously, that they are struggling,” Jackson said.

“Everybody’s struggling with that cost of living increase to put bread on the table and keep their lights on. So that’s really where it comes down to.”

Jackson said members finding out what the enhanced mediation will offer is a positive step.

“Either way, I think our members are excited to see what the outcome is [with] Mediation, and we’re waiting,” Jackson said.

“Our members will ultimately decide.”

Close to 24,000 front line workers from admin staff to sheriffs, and a variety of others are included in those who will decide on what is presented.

“Our members are tired. It’s been a long haul, but they’re ready,” Jackson said.

“They showed that they’re willing and able to come out if need be. I’m impressed. I’m so proud of our members.”