To:

– Premier David Eby: premier@gov.bc.ca

– Brittny Anderson MLA: brittny.anderson.mla@leg.bc.ca

– Brian Jonker- Executive Director Marine Branch brian.jonker@gov.bc.ca

– James Maung-Western Pacific Marine Superintendent: jamesm@westernpacificmarine.com

– Mike Fenton -BCGEU Staff representative: mike.fenton@bcgeu.ca

– Dave Schaub-Labour Relations Board dave.schaub@lrb.bc.ca

– Kootenay Lake Chamber of Commerce: info@kootenaylake.bc.ca

 

Dear Premier Eby, Ms. Anderson, Mr. Jonker, Mr. Maung, Mr. Fenton, and Mr. Schaub,

 

As a concerned resident of the Kootenay Lake area, I am writing to urge immediate action to resolve the ongoing Kootenay Lake Ferry strike. The current disruptions impact our community’s access to essential services, restrict residents’ daily lives, and affect the local economy. 

 

The East Shore community relies heavily on the ferry system to access employment, medical care, education, and family connections. East Shore residents must be able to use the ferry to travel for work, and members of neighboring communities should have access to the East Shore for various reasons as well. The current restrictions are creating significant barriers for those who rely on the ferry system to maintain their livelihoods, attend school, and access health care. These limitations place an undue strain on community members and undermine the support networks that many families rely on, especially those with limited options for childcare or elder care assistance.

 

It is important to note that there is no public transit within our immediate area; the only available public transportation is a bus service to Nelson, which connects residents to medical appointments, school, and other essential needs, which leaves from the Balfour side. The current ferry schedule does not align with this bus service, placing undue hardship on residents who depend on it to meet vital commitments. It is also important to note that Highway 3A is connected by the Kootenay Lake Ferry; it is our highway and by law cannot be blocked.

 

Our shared goal remains clear: we all want a ferry system that is efficient, stable, and safe to support our communities, tourism, and commercial needs. We also believe in ensuring that the dedicated ferry team has rewarding careers with fair compensation, opportunities for advancement, and a work-life balance that supports long-term service quality.

 

Please keep our Kootenay Lake Chamber of Commerce informed of any developments, as they are a vital voice for our community’s businesses and are committed to advocating for a balanced resolution.

 

Thank you for your attention to this pressing issue. I hope that with your support, we can work together to resolve the strike in a way that respects both the community’s needs and the well-being of our ferry operators.

 

Sincerely,

[Your Full Name]

[Your Address]

[Your Contact Information]