BC Transit bus strike disrupts service in Abbotsford, Chilliwack
Posted March 9, 2023 12:35 pm.
Last Updated March 9, 2023 1:07 pm.
BC Transit union workers are stepping up strike action, with the latest impacts affecting bus service in the Fraser Valley through Saturday.
BC Transit says CUPE 561 union members have indicated they will “again cease service” in Abbotsford, Agassiz, Aldergrove, Chilliwack, Harrison, Hope, and Mission starting Thursday for three days.
“This service disruption will not impact handyDART service, which will remain fully operational in Abbotsford, Chilliwack and Mission,” the transit authority previously said.
“BC Transit is closely monitoring 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.”
The latest job action comes after CUPE 561 members stopped collecting fares over two days just weeks prior. Bus service was also affected over a couple of days in February.
Union workers have been calling for a new contract, citing concerns about low wages, poor working conditions, and a lack of pension.
CUPE 561 says contract talks with First Transit — a BC Transit contractor — have been ongoing since last spring.
-With files from Kurtis Doering and Emily Marsten
