BC Transit says it will take time before buses resume in Chilliwack, Fraser Valley

CHILLIWACK — While the Fraser Valley transit strike is officially over, BC Transit says it will take time before buses return to service in Chilliwack, Abbotsford and the surrounding Fraser Valley.

In a statement released Saturday night, BC Transit says CUPE 561 and First Transit Canada have ratified a new labour agreement, and First Transit is working to determine a return to service date.

“It will be several days before transit service is able to resume,” BC Transit said in a statement released to media Saturday night. “Before service resumes it’s required for transit operators to refresh their training to ensure a safe return to service, which is currently underway. This includes familiarizing themselves with the operational processes, duties and equipment, and is standard procedure when resuming service after a certain amount of time away from day-to-day service. The fleet maintenance team also needs time to assess the buses and ensure they are ready for service.”

The strike lasted 123 days, causing multiple difficulties for Fraser Valley commuters who relied on the network of buses between Langley and Hope after CUPE 561 bus drivers walked off the job due to what they said was substandard pay and no pension.