"This is not a stunt, this is real."
Unifor Western Regional Director Gavin McGarrigle announced that Unifor, the union representing bus operators and transit maintenance workers, will move ahead with a "complete system shutdown."
Photo: VANCOUVER – September 8, 2017: A high angle view of many commercial city buses parked in the terminal station in south Vancouver, Canada on September 8, 2017 / Shutterstock
Now in its 20th day, the strike has escalated from a uniform ban to an overtime ban for bus operators, and will proceed with a full system shutdown on Nov. 27 for three days.
McGarrigle and Unifor members of Locals 111 and 2200 held the press conference in New Westminster, highlighting a number of key issues.
"Unlike in 2001 when a four-month complete shutdown occurred, we have taken measured action designed to protect the public," said McGarrigle.
McGarrigle noted that the bus drivers started by only issuing a uniform ban, and continued to work their full shift. Following that, he remarks that Coast Mountain Bus Company failed to come up with another offer after their last last meeting.
"The public is behind us, the public supports the workers, and it's time for TransLink to change its course."
McGarrigle added that the, "fiction that TransLink is not one entity has shown to be false," noting that all company material is branded with TransLink logos and that the transit authority issues all of the rider alerts.
As previously highlighted in other appearances, McGarrigle stated that TransLink executives are paid significantly more than in other systems. Further, he reinforced that assaults on drivers have increased, yet working conditions have worsened due to overcrowding and congestion. He adds that TransLink also blames workers for service issues that are out of the transit operator's control.
"Why should students pay for a U-pass for such an unreliable system? For every student that has trouble, we support your cause," said McGarrigle.
Unifor members are also planning a rally at TransLink headquarters on Nov. 28.
"Join us for our rally and let's get the Metro Vancouver bus system back in service as soon as possible," he said.
McGarrigle notes that Union workers plans, "to return fully to the job on Saturday, Nov. 30."
Unifor is encouraging transit passengers to vent their frustration with TransLink at a rally scheduled for 1 p.m. on Nov. 28 at the TransLink offices. The action coincides with a TransLink Mayors’ Council meeting at the offices.
