The union hall is closed Tuesday, July 1 for the stat, but we know many of you are working straight through. Long hours. Packed terminals. Frustrated passengers. Not enough hands and barely time to catch your breath. If you’re out there this weekend—thank you. You’re the reason the system keeps running. We see the pressure […]
Every year, the provincial government invites the public to weigh in on the next year’s provincial budget. Ferry workers deserve a say in how public money is spent, so we put in a submission. Chronic system under-funding affects us directly: it means short staffing, cancelled sailings, aging vessels and wages that fall behind. When new […]
I started at BC Ferries in 2008, fresh out of high school. Right from the beginning, it felt like its own little community. I started in Horseshoe Bay, then moved over to Tsawwassen, and it was the same feeling, just good people and a great environment. I love what I do, and I just keep […]
June 25 is the Day of the Seafarer. This year’s campaign, My Harassment-Free Ship, puts the spotlight on bullying and harassment at sea. The goal: a global maritime culture rooted in safety, respect and accountability. As a union, we know that harassment and bullying are workplace issues. They’re not just personal experiences; they’re violations of […]
June is National Indigenous History Month, June 21st marks National Indigenous Peoples Day. “A time to reflect, learn the history, heritage, resilience and diversity of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples across Canada.” Join me in saying “Tawâw” (Come In, You’re welcome), from my Ojibwe Cree nation to yours. There are many gatherings and resources […]
MEDIA RELEASE For immediate release June 16, 2025 Barnston Island ferry workers join BC Ferries & Marine Workers’ Union VICTORIA — The BC Ferry & Marine Workers’ Union is proud to welcome Barnston Island ferry workers as our newest members. These workers provide a lifeline to one of the Lower Mainland’s most unique communities, home […]
On June 17, 1978, our union took a historic step by signing our first collective agreement. For 47 years now, that pivotal moment has stood as the foundation for fair wages, safer workplaces and stronger rights for every member. Since that day, countless members have carried forward the spirit of solidarity and advocacy, ensuring our […]
The wage reopener decision fell short, and our members are feeling it. In a recent article in The Tyee, President Eric McNeely lays out the facts. The decision awarded just 1.65 per cent for 2025, which is below inflation and well behind other public sector settlements. Over the life of this contract, BC Ferries workers […]
Five years ago today, on June 12, brother Kulwant (Kenny) Chohan died while working at Deas Dock. Kenny was a welder, a father, a husband and a friend. His death is a devastating and enduring reminder of why workplace safety matters, that every worker deserves to come home alive. BC Ferries was fined for unsafe […]
In a recent editorial, BCFMWU President Eric McNeely raises concerns about BC Ferries’ proposed changes to Route 6 and the lack of meaningful consultation with Salt Spring Island residents and workers. Replacing the Quinsam with two smaller Island-class ferries, both homeported off-island risks local jobs and emergency response times. Most troubling is the lack of […]