Absence of BC NDP Transportation Minister, and the MLA whose riding this issue falls within, demonstrates a continued lack of care and attention for rural BC
BC Government photo
More
than 600 residents of Harrop and Glade, B.C. face the prospect of being
cut off from essential services as a looming ferry strike threatens
their livelihoods and well-being.
Pete Davis, Conservative MLA for Kootenay Rockies is calling on the local NDP MLA for Kootenay Central and Minister of Rural Services, Brittny Anderson, to put rural communities first.
“This isn’t just about logistics; it’s about the people who depend on this ferry to access food, work, and critical services,” Davis said. “The residents of Harrop and Glade deserve leadership. Their local MLA and Minister must stand up for them and ensure their voices are heard.”
Davis is urging the government to take swift action to bring both sides together and prioritize a resolution that avoids further disruption.
“It’s time for the government to lead, support rural communities, and secure a fair deal for everyone involved,” Davis added.
Harman Bhangu, Conservative MLA for Langley-Abbotsford and Conservative Transportation critic, echoed these concerns. “This is about protecting rural livelihoods and families. Leadership means taking responsibility, bringing stakeholders together, and ensuring no one is left behind,” Bhangu said.
Scott McInnis, Conservative MLA for Columbia River-Revelstoke, further criticized the NDP government’s lack of leadership.
“The absence of both the Transportation Minister and the MLA whose riding this issue falls within demonstrates a continued lack of care and attention for rural BC by this NDP government,” said McInnis.
“The fact that concerned citizens are reaching out to Mr. Bhangu, Mr. Davis, and myself for assistance on this issue further proves that this government’s priorities do not lie with small-town B.C. These services are not luxuries; we are talking about livelihoods here.”
McInnis added, “I know both Mr. Davis and I care deeply about the Kootenay region, regardless of riding boundaries. To the citizens of Glade and Harrop, we’re behind you 100 per cent.”
The Conservative MLAs are calling on the NDP government to intervene immediately, facilitate negotiations, and prioritize a solution that prevents disruption for these vulnerable communities.
It should be illegal for unions that provide essential services to strike. Like, what type of system is this...pitting one group against another, enabling the ability to take segments of society hostage? Why is the threat of a strike on a ferry service even possible? Stupidity.
ReplyDeleteAll unions should have the right to strike and government intervention should mean they are awarded their demands in their entirely.
DeleteAway from that, this ferry service is not an essential service. Major inconvenience yes but there are other routes available.
In response to the persons comment, no, there is no ‘other way around’ for the community of Harrop Procter or Glade.
DeleteNor should an EA from Crawford bay have to have a 12 hr day to work her 5 hr shift at the school on the Balfour side. They’ve lost wages thanks to this, plus it’s taken support away from the kids who need it most. I hope both the BCGEU and WPM are ashamed of themselves, especially Paul Finch, president of the BCGEU
There are no other routes from Harrop/Procter or Glade. These are different ferries than the main Kootenay Lake Ferry....
ReplyDelete