STRIKE FAQ
Here are answers to common questions during the Kootenay Lake ferry strike. We will post timely updates on our Service Alert, News page and on our Twitter feed as needed.
When will strike action occur?
BCGEU will go on strike as of Sunday November 3, 12:08pm.
This will result in reduced sailings for the Kootenay Lake ferry between Balfour and Kootenay Bay. The last sailing on Sunday November 3 will be the 10:40am from Kootenay Bay.
What are the sailing times of the Kootenay Lake Ferry during the strike?
The Balfour/Kootenay Lake Ferry is running on a revised schedule during the strike.
The Kootenay Lake Ferry will sail 3 times daily, Monday to Friday, and 2 times daily, Saturday and Sunday. The ferry will also sail in the event of an emergency (this schedule is also available on the Kootenay Lake Ferry page)
Monday to Friday:
| DEPARTING FROM BALFOUR | DEPARTING FROM KOOTENAY BAY |
| 6:30am | 7:10am |
| 8:10am | 9:00am |
| 4:30pm | 5:20pm |
NEW: Saturday and Sunday:
| DEPARTING FROM BALFOUR | DEPARTING FROM KOOTENAY BAY |
| 6:30am | 7:10am |
| 9:40pm | 10:20pm |
Additional sailings will occur in the event of an emergency.
Does WPM have an Emergency Services designation?
Yes. The Labour Board of British Columbia ruled on Tuesday, 1 October 2024 that the Kootenay Lake Ferries are an Essential Service. This means that in the event of job action, there will be a reduced number of sailings but additional sailings will occur in the event of an emergency.
Will other ferry routes be affected or cancelled?
No. As an Essential Service, Kootenay Lake ferry service will continue, but with a reduced sailing schedule and in emergency situations only. Glade and Harrop Cable ferries will run as normally scheduled.
We will update the community and ferry users through our website with the latest information to provide as much notice as possible on any changes to sailing schedules or strike action.
How do I know if my ferry sailing has been affected or cancelled?
As per terms of our Essential Services designation, we will ensure sailings will occur as planned during the strike. WPM will always update website, Service Alerts, and our X/Twitter feed with up-to-date alerts that may affect your travel plans anytime, including during this strike.
How are you able to run ferries during the strike?
The Labour Board of British Columbia has granted Essential Services designation to the Kootenay Lake ferry service. This allows ferry operations to continue at designated times during the strike and in the event of an emergency.
My children need to get to school. Will they still be able to?
Yes. Ferry service has been scheduled for students to attend and from elementary or secondary school. As an Essential Service – designated by the Labour Board of BC, all school bus ferry runs will operate.
What if I have a medical emergency?
With Essential Services designation, ferries will operate in the event of an emergency vehicle crossing.
How long could a strike last?
We do not know. However, we are committed to ongoing positive negotiations with the union to reach an agreement that is satisfactory to both parties.
Will I be safe travelling the ferries?
Yes. All ferries will be operated by the same teams and crew who have the proper technical and safety certifications. You will also be able to board the ferries safely even if there are picket lines set up at the terminal.
How can I stay up to date on everything?
We encourage you to keep checking our website for up to date alerts. We also post updates on X/Twitter.
Are there other places I can go to find out more information about ferry routes?
Yes. Please visit Drive BC for updates on ferry schedules, including potential changes due to weather conditions or other factors.
What is the current state of negotiations between WPM and the BCGEU?
WPM has agreed to the BCGEU’s proposed wage percentage increase over a three-year term, in addition to increased extended health benefits, allowances, and safety equipment. Despite these efforts, the
BCGEU has rejected the proposals put forward to reach a collective agreement. Negotiations will continue, and both parties are working vigilantly to achieve an agreement.