Union says ‘burnout’ is leading to infrequent cancellations on Halifax ferries

Increasingly frequent cancellations to the ferry service in Halifax have the head of the local union speaking out.

Last Thursday, the Alderney ferry was cancelled through the morning commute because of staffing issues.

It is only one of many recent trip cancellations that are becoming a more common issue.

Ray MacKenzie, president of the Amalgamated Transit Union 508, says crews are getting burned out, with captains having to work double shifts to keep the ferries running.

He told CityNews Halifax, the city needs to find a way to hire people for relief positions.

“Right now, they are relying on people doing overtime and it’s getting to the point that they are burning out,”MacKenzie said. “Our opinion is they need to staff up more. They need at least five to eight more relief positions.”

A municipal spokesperson says Halifax Transit continues to actively recruit and train new operators to reduce potential service interruptions.

The municipality also continues to make a shuttle bus available to get people across the harbour, when needed.