The Kootenay Lake Ferry will be out of service over the Labour Day long weekend as ferry workers are expected to go on strike as of midnight on Friday.
According to the union, the strike is “targeted job action” and will only remain in effect for the Labour Day long weekend.
“On Tuesday morning, we expect to have full service again on the Kootenay Lake ferry,” said Stephanie Smith, President of BCGEU (British Columbia Government and Service Employees’ Union).
Graham Clarke, CEO of Western Pacific Marine said he’s “disappointed” with the outcome.
A picket line is expected to be formed by workers at the Kootenay Lake Ferry Terminal. According to Clark, the workers have indicated that ferry rides will only be facilitated for students or those under a medical emergency.
Those that would be using the Kootenay Lake Ferry are advised to make alternate travel arrangements, utilizing Highway 3 through the Kootenay Pass.
Both Harrop and Glade Ferry’s were determined as essential services by the Labour Relations Board due to those community’s lack of road access, and are unaffected by the job action.
The BCGEU said they will evaluate the situation as it develops, and that further job action could be anticipated.
– With files from Ludvig Drevfjall