Fraser Valley transit strike ends as union ratifies agreement

The months-long Fraser Valley bus strike has ended, as the union that covers transit workers announced Friday itratified a mediated settlement with the B.C. Transit contractor that operates public transit in the region.

"Picket lines are being taken down, and the 213 transit workers will begin the return-to-work process," said the union, CUPE Local 561, in a written statement.

More than 200 union members, including drivers, utility workers, bus washers and mechanics, have been on strike since March 20, resulting in an absence of bus service from Abbotsford and Mission to Chilliwack and Hope.

The unionsays the new agreement narrows the wage gap with other transit workers in the region and introduces a pension plan.

"Our members needed a lift, and with this agreement they got one," CUPE 561 President Randy Kootte said in the statement.

Kootte also thanked Fraser Valley residents for showing "support despite the many hardships and inconveniences people had to endure as the dispute dragged on."

Kootte said the union "will do everything it can" to resume bus services as soon as possible.

HandyDART to resume on Monday

A spokesperson for employer First Transit said it was "pleased" the union ratified the tentative agreement.

First Transit is a privately owned company based in the United States that Crown corporation B.C. Transit subcontracts to provide services in Abbotsford, Chilliwack, Mission, Agassiz, Harrison and Hope.

"[First Transit] has already started return-to-work efforts with maintenance staff so transit service can be restored as early as possible for our customers," reads a statement from the company.

The spokesperson said the first service to resume would be HandyDART, the reservation-based transit service for people with mobility challenges and disabilities. They saidany customers wishing to use the service can start calling the service starting Monday, July 24.

"A date for full return to service will be announced as soon as it is confirmed," the spokesperson said.