SIX YEAR ANNIVERSARY OF BUS OPERATOR SLAYING – TRANSIT UNION CONTINUES TO PUSH FOR SAFETY WHILE SUPPORT FROM A CANDY COWBOY HELPS MOURNING WORKERS GET THROUGH THE DAY
WINNIPEG, February 14, 2023 – Today marks the 6th year anniversary since a Winnipeg Transit Bus Operator’s life was taken while finishing up their shift – Amalgamated Transit Union Local (ATU) 1505 mourns their loss while pushing to get transit safety actioned.
“Today is hard day for all of us.” Said Chris Scott, President of ATU 1505. “The heartbreak we feel emboldens us to keep strong and to keep pushing for better safety measures all the time.”
“We are very encouraged by the $5 million funding for Transit safety and we will continue to work with the city to determine what this will look like.” Continued Scott. “We want to get boots on the ground immediately to keep people safe, but while also supporting initiatives to address the underlying causes of crime – it does not exist in a vacuum, it’s all interrelated.”
“Since the loss of our friend, we’ve received some tremendous community support, which really helps us get through it.” Said Scott.
“One community member had generously provided support to transit workers every year on this day with cards from the community, and some donuts and coffee.”
“This individual has let us know they have moved on to other endeavors. The longstanding appreciation previously carried out by them has now been picked up by an anonymous doner referred to as the “Candy Cowboy” who has been helped by Diego from Salisbury House (son of a retired bus operator) and Casey and Friends from No Frills.” Said Scott.
“We want to thank the community for what they have done over the years – and we also want to thank the Candy Cowboy and everyone who helped him for picking it up and continuing with the tradition. It really lifts the spirits of everyone; it’s nice to feel appreciated and know that there are people who support you and try to get you through a tough day.”
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