Transit workers in Metro Vancouver say negotiations stalled on wages, sick leave

VANCOUVER – Some transit workers in Metro Vancouver could go on strike early next week.

The B-C Government and Service Employees’ Union issued a 72-hour strike notice Friday to Protrans BC, operator of the Canada Line rapid transit system.

The move follows four days of mediation and several negotiations in which the union says no significant progress was made on issues including wage increases, sick leave and contract length.

Transit staff are considered essential workers and the union says they want their efforts to be recognized through wage parity with other SkyTrain workers.

Protrans BC says in a statement that it remains committed to bargaining toward a fair agreement for both parties and encouraged the union to continue coming to the table before the strike begins for 182 employees.

The union says the next bargaining date is Sunday and it will work hard to reach a deal for the workers, who have been without a contract since Dec. 31, 2019.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Jan. 29, 2021.