Entries by Rachel Garrick

New Canada-BC agreement leaves ferries behind

Ottawa and B.C. have announced a new Canada-BC Cooperative Prosperity Agreement, committing billions of dollars to transportation, ports, shipbuilding, workforce development and other major infrastructure projects across British Columbia. Premier Eby secured billions for transportation and infrastructure but missed the chance to make a case for two priorities that matter to ferry workers: fair federal […]

Finding a home away from home: Devon’s story

When I came home after spending two and a half years living abroad, I was looking for a job. My brother was working in the terminal at BC Ferries and told me to apply. Within a year, I had a regular position. Then I got involved with the union and young worker initiatives.  I made […]

Golf for Graeme returns to support mental health ⛳

The Graeme Barnes Memorial Classic is returning for another year, bringing ferry workers, families and friends together to support mental health awareness and the next generation of mariners. Created in memory of BC Ferries Second Officer Graeme Barnes, the annual tournament raises awareness of mental health and funds a $2,500 bursary for future marine officers. […]

Budget 2027: Three priorities for B.C.’s marine transportation system

Every year, the province invites public recommendations ahead of the provincial budget. Your union submitted three priorities for B.C.’s 2027 provincial budget that focus on what ferry workers and passengers need. Our recommendations call on the province to: Build ferries in B.C., keeping ferry construction, refit and maintenance work in the province, sending paycheques into […]

Union hall closure for Canada Day 🫎

While many British Columbians enjoy a well-earned day off this Canada Day, thousands of BCFMWU members will be doing what they do every holiday, safely carrying passengers, connecting coastal communities and keeping the province moving. Thank you. We never take your dedication for granted, especially on one of the busiest travel days of the year. […]

Changing directors is easy. Fixing BC Ferries is harder.

Friday’s BC Ferry Authority director shuffle should be the beginning of a serious public conversation about how our ferry system is being managed. “Changing directors is easy. Fixing BC Ferries is harder,” said BCFMWU President Eric McNeely. “British Columbians have watched ferry fares climb while delays and reliability have taken a hit. We deserve to […]

Grill & Chill 2026 raises $2000 for Cops for Cancer

Thank you to everyone who joined Local 1 for our Grill & Chill 2026 event. It was a wonderful day of great food, fun, and community spirit. We are proud to share that, through the generosity of our members and supporters, Local 1’s Good & Welfare Committee raised $2,000 in support of Cops for Cancer. […]

Fair winds, Tachek. ⚓

Photos by BCFMWU member Andrew Glen. For nearly 60 years, Tachek connected communities. She makes her final sailing today. Behind every crossing were skilled ferry workers who knew her well and safely carried generations of passengers home. Capt. Chris Klassen, who sailed her as relief captain, remembers her as a “cool little ship” and a […]

One union, many cultures. Mabuhay!

The recent Mabuhay Celebration in Victoria brought together union members, their families, friends, and community members for a day filled with cultural pride, fellowship and unity. The event showcased the rich heritage of the Filipino community while strengthening bonds among union members and the broader maritime workforce. The celebration highlighted the values that define the […]

Step up for him: Men’s mental health at work

Men account for 75 per cent of suicides. Too many in our marine community have been affected by this loss. This Men’s Health Month, we’re sharing practical advice in a guest post from HeadsUpGuys on recognizing when someone may be struggling, starting difficult conversations and finding support. Experiencing the loss of someone we knew and […]