HandyDART workers protest for new contract
Posted July 10, 2024 8:43 pm.
Last Updated July 10, 2024 9:03 pm.
Two weeks after voting to authorize strike action, unionized HandyDART workers held a protest outside TransLink headquarters Wednesday, calling for a new contract.
HandyDART services thousands of passengers in the Metro Vancouver area each year, providing door-to-door services for passengers with disabilities.
ATU Local 1724 began job action last week, with members refusing to wear their uniforms. Job action could expand to include a “fare strike,” according to the union, which would see passengers not pay for trips.
“We came out here to protest in front of TransLink because our members are frustrated, our riders are frustrated,” said union President Joe McCann.
“Two weeks ago, we had a strike vote. We had an overwhelming 95 per cent mandate from our workers. The ridership is frustrated, we’re frustrated, the quality of service is dropping, taxi-use is skyrocketing. This is a privately funded company. Our drivers are underpaid — 30 per cent less than conventional drivers. So were here to try and effect change and hopeful that TransLink can step in and fix this mess.”
The union says it will be back at the barigaining table for another round of talks on July 15.
ATU Local 1724 says it is prepared to engage in a full strike, if necessary. The union says it represents more than 600 bus operators, trainers, supervisors, office workers, and maintenance workers.
Editor’s note: This article has been corrected to show union members could escalate strike action, if necessary, by not accepting fares or even a full work stoppage.
