Dear Minister Whiteside,
It’s time to realize the human side of how the transit strike is affecting our Cowichan Valley.
Being without the bus is not just a mere inconvenience, but a necessity for people here on a daily basis. Many in Youbou depend on the bus for basic needs to survive, such as getting groceries, doctors appointments, lab work and getting to our Community Services in Lake Cowichan for family assistance programs. Not all are fortunate to drive cars or have good incomes, and our transit provides a way to get to jobs in outer areas. For months now I have watched some of our Youbou residents going without, and I cannot believe this strike has gone on for as long as it has. It is to the point of being cruel.
All our Cowichan Valley drivers deserve a fair wage equity to match other communities that will bring them up to date with current wages. We appreciate our transit drivers more than you will ever know, and please remember... little towns don’t forget.
Trisha Waddington
Youbou
