The Thanksgiving long weekend has arrived, which means it will surely be a busy few days for BC Ferries.
As terminals brace for the onslaught of traffic, the BC Ferry & Marine Workers’ Union is sounding the alarm about results of a recent survey of its members.
It found that BC Ferries crews “are facing disturbing levels of abuse from passengers,” which union president Eric McNeely says is simply unacceptable.
“Behind every sailing is a crew doing their best to get British Columbians where they need to go,” he noted through a media release. “They shouldn’t have to fear being screamed at, spat on or threatened in the process.”
.jpg)
According to the survey, more than 80% of respondents said they’ve been threatened with violence on the job and 92% reported witnessing something of that nature.
Nearly 65% said the incidents have affected their mental health, with just under half of respondents claiming the violence or aggression at work has made them consider quitting.
The union is calling for stronger enforcement of safety policies, along with real consequences for passengers who abuse or threaten workers.
“Protecting workers isn’t optional. Lose them, and the whole system sinks,” added McNeely. “We need BC Ferries to back up our crews. It’s easy. If you threaten a worker, you don’t sail.”
BC Ferries told NowMedia it has “zero tolerance” for abuse or violence directed at employees and takes every report of that nature seriously.
“Our crews work hard every day to provide safe and reliable service, and they deserve respect from all who travel with us,” Ceilidh Marlow, BC Ferries’ senior communications advisor, explained through an emailed statement.
According to Marlow, all reported incidents are investigated, and any violations of BC Ferries’ Rules & Requirements can result in refusal of passage or long-term travel bans.
“We recognize the impact these incidents can have on our people and are actively working with the BC Ferry & Marine Workers’ Union to strengthen safety and mental health supports,” said Marlow.
“Together, we’ve established a working group to identify additional ways to prevent and respond to public abuse, and to ensure our front-line employees feel safe and supported at work.”
Both Marlow, on behalf of BC Ferries, and McNeely, on behalf of crew members, urged the public to be patient and respectful as terminals deal with a high volume of travellers over the long weekend.
“Ferries will be packed this weekend. Patience and kindness go a long way,” McNeely said. “Our members are out there in every weather condition, making sure you get where you need to safely.”
