The ongoing transit strike in the Cowichan Valley is about to enter its eighth month, and the B.C. government says it has gone on long enough.
Employees for transit operator Transdev have been on strike since February 8, and several transit users in the Cowichan Valley, as well as local government, are dismayed that an agreement has yet to be hatched.
Minister of Labour Jennifer Whiteside says the province has heard concerns from residents and they’re hoping the two parties can come to a resolution quickly so people can get back to their normal routines.
“No question transit is essential for getting to work, medical appointments and everyday services,” Whiteside says. “This dispute has gone on too long, and there is real urgency to get the parties back to the table to find a fair resolution. My focus is on helping to restore full transit services as soon as possible.”
The local food bank says the job action is hindering their day-to-day operations.
Last month, Cowichan Basket Society manager Henry Wikkerink said the strike has dealt the community a devastating blow and is impacting supply chains and those who rely on food banks.
“Our guests that come to get lunches or food hampers are having a very difficult time getting here because lots of them are depending on transit,” says Wikkerink. “Many of them are coming less, or they’re trying to find an alternative way to come and pick up what they need.”
Local governments have also asked the province to step in and end the strike to help people who rely on public transit.
North Cowichan mayor Rob Douglas recently penned a open letter to Minister of Transportation Mike Farnworth to voice concerns about the strike having adverse impacts on those who are dealing with financial hardships, and he worries it’s only getting worse.
“Many affected individuals lack access not only to transportation, but also access to the internet, leaving them unable to replace prescriptions, file taxes, obtain identification, or attend appointments,” he says.
Cowichan Valley Regional District chair Kate Segall says they’ve been flooded with letters from frustrated residents over the longest strike in the province’s history.
“There have also been many residents who have sent letters to their municipal governments, and/or expressed their concerns,” says Segall. “They’re frustrated and dissatisfied with the length it has taken to reach a resolution.”
The province stated in February they would respect the right for collective bargaining and it’s important to let the two sides talk without government intervention.
