Victoria transit workers released a statement Friday morning stating if they did not reach a new collective agreement by Oct. 5, they would reinstate an overtime ban. 

Early Friday afternoon, BC Transit released a statement saying that they were unable to reach an agreement with Unifor Local 333-BC and that the overtime ban would resume on Monday.

“Transit workers in Victoria want a deal and they have shown real patience to get one,” said Unifor National President Lana Payne. “BC Transit asked for more time and it has it. But a fair agreement and reliable service both depend on public investment, and governments have to step up with the funding transit needs.”

The union and BC Transit met Sept. 28 and 29 with a mediator and resolved some of Local 333-BC’s concerns, but the union says many “significant hurdles remain” before an agreement can be reached.

“Mediation moved things forward, but we are not there yet,” said Unifor Western Regional Director Gavin McGarrigle. “Riders, workers and the whole community depend on a transit system that is properly funded and fairly staffed.”

BC Transit asked Local 333-BC to pause the overtime ban until Oct. 5 so the parties could attempt to resolve the remaining issues.

The initial overtime ban began on Sept. 1. 

“Our members keep Greater Victoria moving every day and that is what we want to keep doing,” said Unifor Local 333-BC President Stephan Bains. “A fair deal is still within reach by Oct. 5, but it will take real commitment from BC Transit and public funding to back it up.”

BC Transit stated they are working to ensure they are prepared if further labour action occurs.