News Release

Strike by unionized Metro Transit workers could occur as soon as October 1

(Friday, September 28, 2007, Halifax, NS) – Metro Transit bus operators, maintenance workers and other transit workers of Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) Local 508 are now in a legal strike position. The union has indicated that they will withdraw services as of Monday, October 1.

If a strike occurs, no transit services will be available. This means the usual Metro Transit fixed routes, MetroLink, community transit, ferry service and Access-A-Bus will cease to operate for the duration of the work stoppage.

“We are taking this situation very seriously and making every effort to resolve this labour dispute. Both parties have asked the conciliator to convene a meeting this evening of the bargaining team and we are hopeful that this will lead to further dialogue,” said Mayor Peter Kelly.

“Clearly, there will be a significant impact on the public if this strike proceeds, and that’s regrettable. But there is a public safety issue on the table, and we simply cannot compromise when it comes to safety,” said Mayor Kelly.

HRM Director of Transportation and Public Works, Mike Labrecque, offered further explanation around the safety issue, saying, “Currently, our drivers can choose to work up to 22 hours in a row without rest. We feel that puts our drivers, our passengers and the general public at risk. In a 24-hour period, we want to see a minimum rest period of eight consecutive hours to ensure all drivers are well-rested.”

To help reduce the impact on Metro Transit passengers should there be a strike, the following steps have been taken:

Staff of Metro Transit have contacted universities, hospitals and other large employers in the area to advise them of the potential service disruption and the difficulties it may cause the traveling public.

All employers are encouraged to work with their staff to offer greater flexibility or make alternate arrangements for travel for the duration of the strike.

Where appropriate and feasible employers are being asked to give employees greater flexibility in various areas, such as hours of work, alternate work locations or allowing for casual dress in the workplace to enable more people to walk, cycle or roller blade to work.

Carpooling is another option for many travellers. If there is a strike, Metro Transit’s free Park and Ride lots will be available to individuals who choose to park their cars and arrange their own car pools. Park and Ride lots are available at the following locations:

Dartmouth:
Maybank Field
Woodside Ferry Terminal
Portland Hills Terminal

Halifax:
Centennial Arena

Lower Sackville:
Cobequid Terminal
Sackville Terminal

Transit users can check for information updates on the HRM website at www.halifax.ca or by telephoning the HRM Call Centre at 490-4000.

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Contact:

Lori Patterson
Corporate Communications
Phone: (902)490-6531
Cell: (902) 476-5975