Why are you working today when others aren’t?

Chances are you're at work today. And you're probably also wondering why so many friends, family and clients aren't at work.

According to the B.C. Employment Standards Act, unlike Good Friday, Easter Monday is not a statutory holiday which is why most of us are on the grind. Most of us are not government workers.

Today is a holiday for the B.C. Public Service. Federal government workers are also off. Nearly every City Hall is closed. Students, teachers and other school workers are lucky enough to get a four day weekend.

How did this happen? Two words: Collective bargaining. The Canadian Union of Public Employees, which represents most public sector workers, has long had Easter Monday as a holiday in collective agreements with employers.

The Canadian Taxpayers Federation suggests we should all be back to work today. B.C. director Kris Sims said in an email it was "strange" that stores, services, and most private businesses are open today, but for some reason, government services are largely closed.

"Stat holidays should be the same for everyone, whether you’re a private sector worker or a government employee. Lots of people are punching into work today, but for some reason, government offices are closed," Sims said.

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