Canada: Vancouver transit workers to start strike actions November 1 /update 1

Event

Unifor, the labor union representing 5000 Metro Vancouver bus drivers and workers, announced on Thursday, October 31, that talks have broken down with Coast Mountain Bus Company. The union said that strike actions by transit workers will begin at 08:00 (local time) in Vancouver on Friday, November 1. Initially, the actions will be limited to a uniform ban by transit operators (drivers will not wear the Coast Mountain Bus Company uniform) and an overtime ban by maintenance workers. According to the union, the overtime ban is intended to gradually increase pressure and may lead to fewer buses on the roads. Strike actions may escalate in the coming days if talks do not resume or an agreement is not reached. Associated disruptions to public transportation services are also possible in the coming days. Further information can be found on the union's website here.

Advice

Individuals in Vancouver are advised to monitor developments to the situation, anticipate disruptions to public bus services, and to plan alternative modes of transportation.