Acadian Lines workers endorse strike action

Acadian Lines employees voted overwhelmingly in favour of strike action, a move that could threaten intercity bus travel in New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island.

The Amalgamated Transit Union Local 1229announced its 60 employees,including drivers, customer service representatives and maintenance employees, voted 98 per cent in favour of strike action. The union represents workers in New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island.

Glen Carr, the president of the Amalgamated Transit Union Local 1229, said the company is offering a contract that is worth zero per cent over the next five years.

"We're not here to disrupt the travelling public. But this company is forcing us to go on strike," Carr said.

"When the company puts your back against the wall and they offer you nothing, that's not even considering the cost of living."

There are four days of conciliation meetings set tostart on Oct. 26.

The union said it will give the public advance notice of any strike action, so they can make alternate travel plans.

The two sides have been negotiating for the past 10 months.