The union representing B.C.'s nurses says mediated contract talks are now underway, and it's taking down picket lines in an effort to support the bargaining process.

The BC Nurses' Union says mediation between the Nurses' Bargaining Association and the Health Employers Association of B.C. officially began yesterday.

As a sign of good faith, all BCNU picket lines will come down at the end of the day on Tuesday.

However, the union says a province-wide ban on non-nursing duties and restrictions on overtime will remain in place while mediation continues.

BCNU President Adriane Gear says the bargaining committee is entering the process with cautious optimism and hopes to reach an agreement that addresses key issues including safe staffing, workplace safety, manageable workloads and fair compensation.

The union says nurses across the province have remained united throughout the job action and thanked the public and supporters for standing with them during the labour dispute.

BCNU CEO and chief negotiator Jim Gould says the union is committed to bargaining in good faith but remains prepared to take further action if needed to secure a new collective agreement.

To learn more, visit BC Nurses' Union.