November 17, 2021 - Hello Members,

As you may know, British Columbia is recovering and assessing damages from torrential rain over the weekend and into Monday. It has left towns flooded, houses destroyed and highways closed throughout the province. An “atmospheric river” deluged most of the southern part of BC, which lead to many evacuations in the Fraser Valley, Vancouver Island, Interior and the entire town of Merritt. Further evacuation orders have been issued in Abbotsford due to a landslide and extreme flooding in the area. For the most up to date information on Evacuation Orders and Alerts in your area, visit EmergencyInfoBC. 

Highways across the southern part of BC are closed due to massive flooding, mudslides and debris flows. Parts of Highway 1 (Trans Canada) and the Highway 5 (Coquihalla) have been washed away leaving many people stranded.

Please know that my thoughts are with each of you, and your families, whose lives are being up-ended and whose homes have been damaged due to this unprecedented event.

When we know that our members are facing challenges like this, the Local always reaches out to determine whether our members are all safe, and whether there is any assistance the Local can provide. You are part of a USW family that is looking out for you, and willing to support you when you need it.

If you, or anyone you know, requires assistance due to the effects of the flooding, please email contact@usw1944.ca or USW Staff Representative Jayson Little jlittle@usw.ca to let us know how we can help.

You should also let your manager know in case your employer may be able to provide assistance as well.

In Solidarity, 

Donna Hokiro
President
USW Local 1944