BC Transit workers issue 72-hour strike notice as job action looms in Victoria

Transit riders in Greater Victoria could face service disruptions after unionized BC Transit workers issued a 72-hour strike notice.

BC Transit says Unifor Local 333 is expected to begin job action on Monday, August 17th, starting with operators and maintenance workers refusing to wear their uniforms.

While the initial action is not expected to disrupt service, BC Transit warned that further measures could include employees refusing to work or taking other coordinated action affecting the Victoria Regional Transit System.

The labour dispute involves conventional bus operations only and will not affect handyDART service.

“Despite making every reasonable effort to reach a resolution, BC Transit has been advised that Unifor 333 has issued 72-hour strike notice,” the transit agency said in a statement Thursday.

BC Transit says it is implementing its business continuity plans in an effort to minimize disruptions for passengers.

The transportation agency said it remains committed to negotiations and hopeful that an agreement can be reached through the collective bargaining process.

Unifor Local 333 has yet to release a statement. This story will be updated when more information becomes available.

Customers are encouraged to monitor the Victoria Transit Alerts page for the latest service updates.