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B.C. Premier Clark offers ‘assistance’ in resolving Kelowna transit strike

Premier Christy Clark.
Premier Christy Clark.

B.C. Premier Christy Clark has waded into the ongoing transit strike in the Central Okanagan.

The drivers walked off the job Thursday Nov. 10.

The union representing the drivers has repeatedly asked the City of Kelowna and the provincial government to get involved in the negotiations. Both have refused, citing the dispute is between the employer — First Canada — and the unionized transit workers.

In a release issued Monday, Clark says she understands the frustrations with the lack of progress in finding a solution.

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“It’s added a burden to seniors, students and families that is proving extremely difficult to cope with as the strike continues,” she said.

Clark is asking both sides to resume negotiations and is offering some assistance in kick-starting talks.

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“Transportation ministry officials are watching closely and are prepared to offer assistance to get the union and the company talking again.”

Clark also mentioned Monday’s incident when a young male on a bike allegedly threatened striking transit workers in Kelowna near Orchard Park Mall.

Police say they recovered a pellet gun.

Clark is asking for cooler heads to prevail.

“The solution, though, won’t be found through violence and threats and I’d encourage everyone to express themselves peacefully until the strike is concluded,” said Clark.

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