Transit workers in British Columbia’s Cowichan Valley are ramping up pressure on their employer, Transdev, by refusing to wear uniforms as they approach a February 8 strike deadline. Members of Unifor Local 114 and Local 333BC, representing bus drivers, mechanics, cleaners, and HandyDART operators, began the uniform ban last Friday after contract negotiations broke down.
The dispute centres on wages, pensions, and working conditions, including issues related to operator breaks and access to washroom facilities. Unifor National President Lana Payne called on Transdev to negotiate a fair collective agreement. “Transit workers move our communities. Our members demand respect from the company, and we will support them as they bargain a fair collective agreement,” Payne said.
A strike would halt conventional transit and HandyDART services in the Cowichan Valley beginning February 8, with exceptions for medically necessary travel. The 52 workers impacted include 44 members from Cowichan Valley Regional Transit and eight HandyDART operators.
Unifor Western Regional Director Gavin McGarrigle emphasized the need for improved public transit funding in the province. “We need more government investment in fixing and growing public transit here in B.C. Transit workers deserve good jobs, fair wages, and not having to worry when their next break to go to the bathroom might be on their shift,” McGarrigle said.
Unifor, Canada’s largest private-sector union, represents over 320,000 workers, including 21,000 in road transportation.
The union has indicated it is open to further bargaining sessions, but no new dates have been scheduled.
