Metro Vancouver HandyDART workers on strike

– Circulated on behalf of ATU Local 1724 –

Metro Vancouver HandyDART workers are on strike as of Sept 3, because Transdev, the French multinational contracted by Translink to operate the service, has refused to bargain a fair contract.

A central issue for workers is earning wage parity with HandyDART workers in the Fraser Valley. This is important for riders too, because the low pay at Metro Vancouver HandyDART causes severe turnover and staffing shortages, which in turn cause skyrocketing taxi use, long wait times, and difficulty booking trips. Under the current status quo, HandyDART service levels per senior are less than half of what they were in 2008. Service just can’t keep up with demand, because instead of paying workers fairly, Transdev has chosen to line its corporate pockets.

Transdev’s disregard for the public good is further demonstrated by their lack of urgency in negotiations. Although the Union has said that it is ready to bargain at any time, any place, Transdev announced that it would not be able to meet until September 12.

Send a letter telling Transdev to bargain a fair contract, and urging Translink officials to support workers and riders!

Send your message: http://www.bit.ly/handydartfaircontract