VICTORIA — (Dec. 8, 2004) — A new round of talks are expected today as B.C. ferry workers hit the picket lines, disrupting transportation between Vancouver Island and the mainland.

Talks were expected to resume this afternoon between the B.C. Ferry and Marine Workers’ Union and B.C. Ferries Corp. Negotiations broke down last week, mainly over the issues of wages and contracting work out. Labour action began yesterday after the company locked out catering staff and cashiers and replaced them with casual workers.

Fewer trips will be made under what is being called “essential service levels” on the five largest routes. The company also won’t accept reservations or honour existing bookings. It advises that customers will be loaded on a first come, first serve basis with priority given to medical and emergency transportation, school buses, as well as commercial vehicles.

The strike is the first since 1992, although there were rotating job actions during contract negotiations in 1999. Ferries also stopped sailing in 1987 during a one-day provincial general strike as part of Operation Solidarity.

— with files from Canadian Press