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“I am a Canadian, free to speak without fear, free to worship in my own way, free to stand for what I think right, free to oppose what I believe wrong, or free to choose those who shall govern my country. This heritage of freedom I pledge to uphold for myself and all mankind.” ~~ John G. Diefenbaker

TIMES COLONIST: 'Resilience put to the test' as B.C. Ferries tries to cope with high traffic, staff shortages, vessel failures

 


B.C. Ferries wrapped up its past fiscal year, which ended March 31, by carrying a record 9.4 million vehicles, and then set another high in this year’s first quarter, April to June, with 2.5 million vehicles.

 

The numbers illustrate the strong demand from travellers as B.C. Ferries faces challenges, such as cancelled sailings, delayed departures and long waits at terminals, and as it looks to renew its fleet and infrastructure with a $5.2-billion capital plan.

 

 B.C. Ferries’ annual general meeting in Victoria on Thursday highlighted issues such as the impact of global inflation, a worldwide shortage of trained mariners, changing patterns in the workplace, and workers tempted by higher wages offered by other employers. Negotiations are taking place now under an agreement to reopen wage talks ...


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