Yesterday, our City experienced an unimaginable tragedy. We are heartbroken by the loss of life and the devastating injuries suffered in this collision.

On behalf of our over 4000 Members, we extend our deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of those who lost their lives. We are thinking of everyone who was injured, and we sincerely hope for their speedy and full recovery. Our thoughts are also with our Transit Operators involved, their families, and all those who witnessed or responded to this horrific event. With the information available to us at this time, we are aware that one Operator remains in hospital and is being treated for the serious injuries he sustained in the accident. Our hearts are with him and his loved ones as he begins his recovery with the aid of his medical professionals.

Behind every uniform is a person, a family, and a community. Our Transit Operators come to work each day with the focus on getting people where they need to go, safely. We take great pride in that. Yesterday’s events have profoundly affected our ATU 583 family, and we recognize that the impact of this tragedy will extend far beyond the immediate scene.

We are grateful to the emergency personnel who responded under extraordinarily difficult circumstances, and we recognize the courage and efforts of those who worked to help those at the scene. We are especially thinking of the Police Officer who raced into a burning bus to help those trapped. Their bravery is beyond words and we are grateful. We know there are many more heroes that will be identified in the coming days and our deepest gratitude goes out to them as well.

We are in the early stages of this investigation but want to ensure our Members and the riding public that we are eager to work with all levels of Government and Industry to ensure we work in and provide the safest public transit system possible.

This tragedy affects our entire community. In the face of such devastating loss, we stand united in grief, in solidarity with all those affected, and in our unwavering commitment to one another.

The Officers and Members of ATU Local 583 – Calgary