By: Tommy Leung
On March 20, 2023, Fraser Valley public transit workers went on strike due to a labour dispute with BC Transit and their local service provider, First Transit. For the next 124 days, Abbotsford, Hope, Chilliwack, Mission, and Agassiz communities were without access to public transit. This service interruption had a significant negative impact on people who are blind or low vision in these areas as many rely on public transit to access employment, healthcare services, shopping, recreation, and to fully participate in their communities.
As the strike continued, CNIB heard from many residents who expressed their concerns. In addition to the increased isolation caused by the lack of access to public transportation, many people felt their voices were not being heard. In May, the BC-Yukon division of the Canadian Council of the Blind (CCB) released a public statement urging both sides to find a swift resolution to the strike. In solidarity with CCB, CNIB released the following public statement:
CNIB urges BC Transit to resume transit service in Fraser Valley
At CNIB, we stand in solidarity with the Canadian Council of the Blind regarding the Fraser Valley transit service suspension that has been in effect for more than three months. While we understand the Government of British Columbia has appointed a mediator, the ongoing labour dispute continues to impact the lives of thousands of community members with sight loss, who rely on public transit to fully participate in the communities of Agassiz-Harrison, Central Fraser Valley, Chilliwack, and Hope. Without access to public transit, people who are blind or partially sighted often experience reduced independence, leading to higher rates of unemployment, limited recreational opportunities, and increased social isolation. Whether grocery shopping, attending medical appointments, or connecting with family and friends, access to public transit is essential. BC Transit has a responsibility to ensure riders have reliable transit services outside of Greater Vancouver. We are urging First Transit and CUPE Local 561 to reach a resolution as soon as possible – people’s lives are depending on it.
Following the release of the statement, the Abbotsford News published the following article: CNIB Urges BC Transit To Resume Bus Service In Fraser Valley | Abbotsford News (abbynews.com).
A tentative agreement was reached on July 21, bringing an end to the strike. This issue highlighted how critical access to public transit is.
In October, we are launching a transit campaign called “Get On Board,” aimed at improving the accessibility of public transit for passengers who are blind or low vision. To get involved, email tommy.leung@cnib.ca.