The three month shutdown of transit service in the Cowichan Valley continues with no resolution in sight.
Forty-four transit operators, cleaners, and mechanics represented by Unifor Local 114, and eight handyDart operators from Unifor Local 333 went on strike February 8, 2025.
There are no negotiations scheduled and no more meetings with a mediator are planned.
In an email response to our newsroom, BC Transit says it has no plans to ask for intervention and has faith in the collective bargaining process.
“BC Transit is continuing to closely monitor the situation and sincerely apologizes to customers for the inconvenience caused by this matter. We understand the frustration felt by customers, and that the job action is difficult for everyone involved in the region. BC Transit strongly believes in the collective bargaining process and hopes the two sides will reach an agreement soon.”
Wages and pensions are key issues as Transdev employees in the Cowichan Valley try to close the gap with transit workers Victoria.
Another concern is access to safe, clean washrooms and designated breaks for transit operators.
In April, members of the two locals overwhelmingly voted to reject a contract offer from their employer, Transdev, which operates bus and handyDART services on behalf of BC Transit in communities around the province.
BC Transit also says that with buses off the road and non-essential handyDART trips unavailable, “many of the costs of the transit system —such as labour, fuel, maintenance, and tires—will be eliminated or reduced,” but adds that some costs will be incurred to maintain business continuity and to keep the facility and fleet in a state of readiness.
BC Transit says handyDART service that is deemed essential, such as appointments related to renal dialysis, cancer treatment and multiple sclerosis, continues to operate during the strike.
