FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Conservatives Demand Action on Kootenay Lake Ferry Strike with New Essential Services Designation
“We respect the union’s right to negotiate, but families can’t be left stranded without access to work, medical care, and essential supplies.”
–Harman Bhangu, Conservative MLA for Langley-Abbotsford & Opposition Critic for Transportation
VICTORIA, BC: Conservative Party of BC MLAs are calling on Labour Minister Jennifer Whiteside to immediately intervene and designate increased ferry service levels as essential under Section 72 of the Labour Code, ensuring residents and businesses on Kootenay Lake have the transportation access they need.
“Even with the MLA for Kootenay Central, Brittny Anderson, missing in action, the Minister of Labour has the ability to help these residents now before they face more serious health and safety issues or lose their livelihoods,” said Kiel Giddens, Conservative MLA for Prince George–Mackenzie and Official Opposition Labour Critic. “The NDP government has failed to do anything to support the resolution of this dispute between the union and employer. That’s why I’m calling on Minister Jennifer Whiteside to immediately direct increased essential service levels to a minimum of six sailings daily to protect the health and well-being of residents in the Kootenay Lake region.”
The ongoing BCGEU strike, which began on November 3rd, 2024, has drastically reduced ferry sailings from ten daily trips to just three. The Labour Relations Board has failed to recognize residents’ feedback in their decision on essential service level.
Langley-Abbotsford MLA and Conservative Transportation Critic Harman Bhangu echoed concerns of impacted residents. “The NDP needs to act now. We respect the union’s right to negotiate, but families can’t be left stranded without access to work, medical care, and essential supplies. Three sailings aren’t enough – at least six are needed to keep people moving safely. Let’s find solutions while talks continue.”
Conservatives in BC stand with the residents and businesses impacted by the strike and will keep pressure on the NDP government to take immediate action.
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Media contact: [email protected]
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