The union representing transit service in Central Okanagan employees has officially issued a notice of a potential strike.

The job action could take place as early as Thursday, Sept.1.

FirstGroup, BC Transit鈥檚 service contractor in the Central Okanagan, is undergoing negotiations with the Amalgamated Transit Union Local 1722, who are advocating for a 鈥渓iving wage鈥� for their members.

FirstGroup operates the bus and handyDART services in 91大黄鸭, West 91大黄鸭, Westbank First Nation, Lake Country and Peachland.

On Aug. 28, unionized 91大黄鸭 transit drivers voted 97 per cent in favour to approve a strike vote.

READ MORE: 鈥楥an鈥檛 hire and retain professional, reliable workers鈥�: Possible 91大黄鸭 transit strike

There is currently a shortage of drivers and as a result, routes are not properly covered, placing extra strain on employees of FirstGroup.

Al Peressini, president of Amalgamated Transit Union Local 1722, said that once hired, drivers are not guaranteed hours, have no benefits, and work as needed, on call.

鈥淲e strongly encourage both parties to find a fair and reasonable resolution,鈥� said BC Transit in a press release.

Regional partners have sent a letter to the Minister of Labour requesting the provincial government intervene, in order to prevent disruptions to service.

In the event of service disruption, visit for further information.

Jacqueline.Gelineau@kelownacapnews.com
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