It’s news that families across Renfrew County have been hoping for since the start of school – both sides in the contract dispute between the Renfrew County Joint Transportation Consortium and school bus operators have reached an agreement in principle.
“The Renfrew County Joint Transportation Consortium, Directors of Education for RCDSB and RCCDSB, and CF Vaudry Bus Lines, Holly Bus Lines, Musclow Bus Lines, Renfrew County Bus Lines, Skelhorn Bus Lines, Switzer-Carty, and Valley Transportation met on Monday, Oct. 7 to continue contract discussions,” reads a joint statement issued by RCJTC and the operators Monday afternoon. “The RCJTC and seven bus companies are pleased to share that they have reached an agreement in principle. A tentative start date for transportation services will be shared by the bus companies by Friday, Oct. 11 with confirmation of the start date to be received by early next week.”
Officials say the agreements will be finalized during the next week, but the deal consists of multi-year agreements that at minimum will run until the end of the 2028-2029 school year.
“Everyone involved in these discussions understands how difficult the first few weeks of school have been for families, students, and the community. We want to express our collective thanks and appreciation for your patience and understanding during this difficult time,” reads the release.
(Written by Sherry Haaima)