The B.C. General Employees’ Union (BCGEU) rallied in solidarity yesterday afternoon at the Balfour Terminal, to support workers at Western Pacific Marine who have been on strike for over two months.
Executive Vice President with the BCGEU, Megan Washington says their members deeply care about the impact this job action is having on everyone and that the decision to strike is never an easy one.
“Western Pacific Marine refuses to offer the same wages and working conditions as other ferry operators in the region, forcing a prolonged strike and hurting local residents who rely on these services.” said Washington.
“There is a recruitment and retention issue in the Kootenay ferries and that threatens the long-term viability of the service.”
“Kootenay ferry workers are seeking wage increases in line with those recently negotiated at WaterBridge ferries as well as a new work schedule that offers better work-life balance, reduces fatigue and is standard across the marine industry.”
In response to the rally, Western Pacific Marine General Manager Odai Sirri says they have been attempting to negotiate a collective agreement since June 2024 and is refuting claims of inadequate wages and working conditions.
“Over the past five years, Western Pacific Marines has exceeded wages and benefits of other ferry operators in the region.” said Sirri.
“And this is going to continue with our new collective agreement. Our crew members will continue to have higher wages and benefits than other inland ferry operators. That needs to be very clear to the community.”
Western Pacific Marine says it is committed to reaching an agreement with the BCGEU that us fair and reasonable to both parties.
“WPM has been and continues to be open and available for bargaining at any time and we have some more bargaining dates coming up at the end of the month and we look forward to making more progress to reach an agreement.”
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