The B.C. government has appointed Vince Ready as a special mediator in the ongoing labour dispute with the Kootenay Lake Ferry saga.
“Residents use the Kootenay Lake ferries to get to work, go to school, access services, and stay connected to their communities,” said Minister of Labour Jennifer Whiteside in a press release.
“The ongoing labour dispute has been disruptive to daily life and the local economy. To help resolve the dispute between Western Pacific Marine and BCGEU Local 2009, I have appointed Vince Ready as a special mediator.”
Ready has vast experience in labour relations and is renowned for his success in helping employers and unions reach agreements.
“This appointment provides a path for the parties to work through their differences, and I appreciate their willingness to engage in this process,” Whiteside added.
“I expect the two sides to bargain fairly throughout this process while ensuring reliable ferry service for residents in the Kootenays.”
Ready will begin work immediately to reach a settlement. If one is not reached within 14 days, he will issue recommendations to the minister and the parties.
“These recommendations will represent a fair and transparent path to resolving this dispute. It is in the best interests of both parties to carefully consider the special mediator’s recommendations.”
In a statement issued March 30, the B.C. General Employees’ Union (BCGEU) said it is pleased with the ministry’s decision.
“Our union bargaining committee has been working hard to reach a new collective agreement that provides the pay and benefits needed to attract and retain staff for this vital public service. We’re pleased that the government has recognized the importance of resolving this situation quickly by agreeing to appoint a special mediator,” said BCGEU president Paul Finch.
“Workers have been engaging in job action since October and want to get back to work under a fair agreement. Our union will provide all of the information necessary for the mediator to perform their role, and we encourage Western Pacific Marine to do the same.”
Special mediators are appointed by the Ministry of Labour when requested by both parties in a labour dispute and report back directly to the ministry.
They have expertise and greater authority in addressing challenging labour disputes. The two parties had engaged a mediator through the B.C. Labour Relations Board earlier in negotiations.
The BCGEU requested a special mediator from the Ministry of Labour early last week after Western Pacific Marine (WPM) agreed with the union’s proposal to engage one.
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