Winnipeg Transit drivers told no RIP signs on anniversary of killing

There will be no signs in memory of slain transit driver Irvine Jubal Fraser on Winnipeg Transit buses Thursday.

Valentine’s Day marks the second anniversary of Fraser’s death on the job, but Winnipeg Transit decided not to let its drivers run messages on buses saying “In Memory #521” — Fraser’s badge number.

Last year, drivers were seen across Winnipeg honouring Fraser with messages across the digital signs at the front of the bus.

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Mayor Brian Bowman said he wasn’t involved in the decision not to allow drivers to flash the same signs on buses as they did last year.

“I respect the fact that we do recognize that we have a day of mourning for all City of Winnipeg employees who have lost their lives in service of their community,” the mayor said.

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The city’s official Day of Mourning is April 28.

Winnipeg Transit said it told the Amalgamated Transit Union of its plans not to remember the slain driver with signs in advance, and referred to various safety initiatives put in place since his death.

The head of the Transit union, Aleem Chaudhry, said management didn’t give a reason as to why members were not allowed display messages for Fraser, adding he’s disappointed at the lack of empathy.

“It’s very very difficult to understand, because we have so many situations that happen that are unsafe out there… situations that take place where people come very very close to getting hurt –maybe not killed but at least hurt — and they feel those feelings.

“It’s a tough time and they should not have done this.”

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-With files from Malika Karim