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SkyTrain union fires back at TransLink for ‘inaccurate’ and ‘incendiary’ comments

VANCOUVER (NEWS 1130) — The union representing SkyTrain workers who are poised to take strike action by shutting down service says it’s insulted by the words used by TransLink to describe developments in the ongoing labour dispute.

Saturday, CUPE 7000 announced if no deal is reached by 5:00 a.m. Tuesday, the Expo and Millennium lines will be shut down until 5:00 a.m. Friday. Soon after, TransLink characterized this job action as unreasonable and unacceptable noting 150,000 people use the SkyTrain each weekday.

In a statement Sunday, the union says those comments have set bargaining back.

“In my own statements to date, I have maintained a tone of respect throughout. So it is unfortunate that TransLink has chosen to go down this road. Such comments about our members do nothing to further bargaining and, on the contrary, have slowed down the process for both parties,” says CUPE 7000 President Tony Rebelo. “Our focus remains getting an agreement as the number one priority. We remain committed to negotiating for a new contract at the bargaining table and reaching a deal with no disruption of service.”

The statement says the union will remain at the table but will not be making any more statements to the media.

In response, TransLink says it is monitoring the negotiations and intends to provide updates on the bargaining process when they become available.

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