The Federal Bridge Corporation Limited (FBCL) says it has exceeded expectations in response to Black Friday traffic during the strike at the Blue Water Bridge in Point Edward, near Sarnia.

Micheline Dubé, President and Chief Executive Officer of FBCL said on Saturday, November 26th, 2016, "Our managerial and non-union staff haves done an excellent job since the beginning of the labour disruption and with the heavy traffic volumes over the last two days. We are particularly pleased with the positive comments made directly to toll attendants by bridge users on their constructive attitude and effectiveness.”

Meanwhile, PSAC Local 501 says bridge traffic is down because motorists are avoiding the border crossing, in part as a show of support to the workers. With no talks between the sides scheduled, the union is speculating that declining toll revenues during the holiday season may encourage the FBCL to return to the bargaining table.

The strike by 47 PSAC members began on Monday, November 21st. It involves toll collectors, maintenance and cleaning staff, and currency exchange workers. The Blue Water Bridge is one of the busiest border crossings in the country, with about 15,000 vehicles per day travelling across the spans.

The FBCL says the deal that was rejected last week included a 10 per cent wage and benefits increase, increased shift premiums and additional leave benefits. The Corporation denies assertions by the union that it is seeking major concession or changes to benefits, maternal/paternal leave policies, overtime, scheduling policies and pensions.

PSAC Local 501 President Paul Haney identified two specific concessions that management was seeking, including a modification to the discipline policy which is “unacceptable to our members.” Haney says the second concession involves changes to benefits that would end workplace benefits for those who work past the age of 65.

FBCL amalgamated with the Blue Water Bridge Authority in February 2015. The current PSAC Local 501 contract expired pre-amalgamation in November of 2014.