Ferry workers' contract negotiations escalate to public disputes

Contract negotiations between ferry workers and their employer, Western Pacific Marine (WPM), have shifted to the public eye due to ongoing disputes. Talks have stalled, leading to accusations and claims from both sides. The B.C. General Employees' Union (BCGEU) released an open letter on March 21 detailing their concerns. WPM responded by saying it cannot meet the union's demands, which they deem excessive. WPM’s general manager, Odai Sirri, mentioned they have asked for arbitration to settle the issues but the union has declined. The union argues for better wages, claiming they want to match those of Waterbridge Ferries. However, WPM states its wages are already higher and that the union would benefit if they accepted the company's proposal. Recently, the BCGEU announced it will file a complaint of bad faith bargaining with the B.C. Labour Relations Board. The union believes that WPM's recent actions have hurt negotiations. BCGEU president Paul Finch criticized WPM for reducing wage proposals by over 60 percent during latest discussions. He stated that they have tried hard to reach an agreement to support ferry services in the Kootenay region. The union also claims that WPM has delayed negotiations to push for government-imposed arbitration. Sirri countered that the union is trying to control not just wages but also operations and staffing. Despite ongoing strikes since November 3, ferry services on Kootenay Lake are still in operation but with limited sailings. This impacts residents in water-access-only communities, where many depend on these essential services.