The Kootenay Lake ferry strike has almost cut off the economic connection between Nelson and the East Shore. (Tamara Hynd)
Nelson Star – February 18 2025 – Bill Metcalfe
80 unionized ferry workers have been on strike since Nov. 2, causing uncertainty on east shore of Kootenay Lake
The Kootenay Lake ferry strike is causing considerable financial damage to businesses and workers, according to an East Shore Chamber of Commerce survey.
The report describes supply chain disruptions, a decrease in customers, and loss of work in tourism, retail, trades and professional services.
This resulted in cancelled or delayed business activities, reduced operating hours, staff layoffs and financial losses, some of which exceed $10,000.
On Nov. 3, 80 members of the B.C. General Employees Union went on strike against the ferry operator Western Pacific Marine. The Balfour-Kootenay Bay Ferry is now reduced to three weekday sailings for essential travel and two on weekends. Passengers who are considered essential services board first, followed by any other passengers until the boat is full.
The economic downturn and the personal dynamics of the strike are impacting mental health in the community, says chamber president Garrett Garbula.
“It’s not only financial, but it’s just the stress of not knowing,” he said.
It’s not just a question of wondering when the strike will end, he says. Drivers are uncertain about whether they will be allowed on the ferry, and whether any of the few sailings will be cancelled (there have had several cancellations this year).
They also worry about whether to risk driving on the alternate route of the Kootenay Pass in the winter, and about whether they can keep their employment or contracts on the other side, given the few ferry sailings per day. They wonder how they will pick up their prescriptions in Nelson.
