This page has been created in response to the high volume of communication the Board has received regarding the current job action and essential service levels at the Kootenay Lake Ferry.
On March 30th, the Minister of Labour announced the appointment of Vince Ready as special mediator in the dispute. The Special Mediator process is taking place outside of the Board, however, we understand the Special Mediator’s report has been delivered to the parties to the dispute.
What are essential services?
Learn more about essential services.
What services are considered essential in this dispute?
The essential services are set out in Schedule A of the Board’s order 2024 BCLRB 180. However, in response to an application filed by the Employer, the Board has issued a stay of proceedings in this matter. This means the Glade and Harrop Ferries will continue to operate at 100% while the Employer pursues reconsideration of this order.
Please note that services in Schedule A represent the minimum level of service that must be maintained regardless of what kind of job action is underway. In the event the Union doesn't engage in the full extent of job action permitted, services may be more than what are contained in Schedule A. Please consult the website for Western Pacific Marine for updated service alerts.
How do I know if my reason for travelling on the ferry is considered essential?
Schedule A outlines what travel is considered essential for the purposes of this labour dispute. If your reason for travel isn’t listed in Schedule A or if you aren’t sure if your reason for travelling on the ferry is considered essential, contact the Union or Employer. We have been told both the Union and Employer have representatives at the ferry terminals.
How did the Board decide what services to include in Schedule A?
The Board issued the order after hearing arguments and positions from the Union and the Employer, who are the parties to the labour dispute.
I'm a member of the public affected by the current job action. What can I do?
Bring your concerns to the attention of the Union and Employer. We have been told that both the Union and the Employer have representatives at the ferry terminals.
I see there is a Hearing scheduled. Can I attend?
Members of the public can generally attend hearings. If a hearing is scheduled to proceed virtually, email the Board Registrar for the access link. Please note, though, that unless they have been granted standing, members of the public can't speak or take part in a hearing. Only the parties to the application can take part in a hearing.
The Board’s hearing calendar also lists meetings that are not open to the public, including:
- Informal meetings
- Mediations
- Settlement conferences
Unless they have been granted standing, members of the public can't attend or take part in informal meetings, mediations, or settlement conferences.
Please double check whether the meeting is a hearing or an informal meeting, mediation, or settlement conference before requesting a link.
How can I get updates from the Board?
If a new or amended order is made, it will be available on our Decisions page.