A series of cost saving measures were announced today by TransLink, Metro Vancouver’s regional transportation authority responsible for rapid transit, bus travel and the SeaBus line across Burrard Inlet among other services. The significant financial losses faced by the company, coupled by a precipitous drop in ridership due to the COVID-19 pandemic has led to the changes announced today.
While these decisions are not entirely unexpected, they do have consequences for several members of the healthcare community, particularly those who work for long-term care, assisted and independent living, as well as home health services.
In response to the layoffs and service cutbacks, BCCPA and EngAge BC CEO Daniel Fontaine expressed issued the following statement.
“We are saddened to learn about the service reductions and the impact of staff layoffs that will affect families across the region during this difficult time,” says Fontaine. “We would like to thank all of the employees behind our vitally important transportation system – both those who continue to move riders and those whose employment has been affected by today’s announcement. Your work is extremely critical to our region, and in particular to those who care for B.C.’s seniors.
“It is our hope that senior levels of government will work with TransLink to secure the necessary funding to ensure bus service is there for our frontline health care heroes when they need it.”
