MARCH 18, 2022
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Whistler/Squamish Strike
On March 16 and 17, Whistler Transit Ltd. and Diversified Transportation (PWTransit) and Unifor Local 114 reconvened at the bargaining table. Unfortunately, after two full days of negotiations, the two parties did not reach an agreement. The company is extremely disappointed in this outcome as we felt that progress was being made early in our discussions.
The company offered a package that met two out of three of the union’s identified priorities. Specifically, all employees would be provided with benefits that are 100% paid by the employer, and we agreed to an introduction to the Union’s CAAT pension plan for all employees. We also offered fully retroactive wage increases in each year of the deal combined with a large signing bonus.
At this time, we are evaluating possible next steps as we remain committed to getting our employees back to work and serving the communities of Whistler, Squamish, and Pemberton.
Unfortunately, the Union rejected the offer. They did not present a counter-proposal and declined to present the offer to their members for a vote. Whistler Transit Ltd. and Diversified Transportation are disappointed in their decision and it’s the Company’s opinion that the union’s refusal to move off of their initial offer of nearly a year ago represents a lack of earnestness in bargaining for a reasonable deal.
We understand the impact this matter has on the community as many depend on transit, and we apologize for the inconvenience of the past few weeks. We were hopeful we could reach a resolution and felt the offer presented gives the employees a fair deal and increases wages in excess of other systems. We hope the Union reconsiders their position and returns to the table
Media Inquiries:
Amaira Hansen
Director, Communications
Pacific Western Group of Companies
403-999-6715
amairah@pwt.ca