VANCOUVER, BC, July 25,
2024 /CNW/ - Unifor is calling on all levels of
government to collaborate and ensure adequate public funding for
BC's public transit systems.
"We need strategic collaboration to fund public transit to keep
our cities moving and to support good union jobs," said
Lana Payne, Unifor National
President. "Governments must work together to solve this funding
crisis and protect our transit systems."
As Translink Coast Mountain Bus Company released "Potential
Transit Service Impacts Report" highlighting a significant funding
shortfall, Unifor stands firm in its commitment to advocate both on
behalf of its transit worker members and transit users for the
necessary investments to maintain high-quality transit services and
secure union jobs.
"Public transit is a cornerstone of sustainable urban
development and essential for reducing traffic congestion and
environmental impact," said Gavin
McGarrigle, Unifor Western Regional Director. "It is crucial
for governments to recognize the value of robust public transit
systems and to invest accordingly."
The recent funding challenges faced by TransLink and other
transit operators in BC underscore the need for a comprehensive
funding strategy that includes contributions from federal,
provincial, and municipal governments.
"The loss of pandemic relief funding, coupled with increased
operational costs and declining ridership, has created a perfect
storm threatening the viability of public transit services. Unifor
will continue to urge all levels of the government to look beyond
temporary solutions and work towards a sustainable funding model
that addresses both infrastructure and operational needs," said
Payne.
The union believes this approach will ensure that public transit
remains a reliable and efficient option for all residents.
Unifor is Canada's largest
union in the private sector, representing 320,000 workers in every
major area of the economy. The union advocates for all working
people and their rights, fights for equality and social justice in
Canada and abroad, and strives to
create progressive change for a better future.
SOURCE Unifor