Metro Vancouver transit workers vote 99% in favour of strike action

Public transit workers across Metro Vancouver have voted nearly unanimously in favour of strike action at Coast Mountain Bus Company.

The move comes just weeks before people from around the world descend on the region for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

According to the two unions representing the workers, Unifor Locals 111 and 2200, no walk-out date has been set. They noted, however, that the vote signals members' "readiness to escalate" if bargaining stalls.

"A 99% strike mandate is a clear message these workers are together and resolute about the challenges they face," Unifor National President Lana Payne said. "They keep Metro Vancouver moving every single day, and they deserve a contract that reflects their value, their skill, and the cost of living in the region. CMBC needs to take this vote seriously."

Included in the strike mandate are over 5,000 "transit operators, maintenance workers, SeaBus crews, Community Transit operators, and Spareboard members across Metro Vancouver."

The unions noted that bargaining began in February, with representatives asking the company to address "cost-of-living pressures, health and safety, and dignity in retirement."

"CMBC has been told exactly where their workers stand," Unifor Western Regional Director Gavin McGarrigle added. "Transit workers are not asking for the world. They are asking for a fair contract that keeps pace with the cost of living in one of the most expensive cities in the country. The sooner the employer recognizes that, the sooner we get a deal."

Negotiations are set to continue on June 1.