'Zero tolerance' for transit violence

Edmonton police and the city are fast-tracking plans to make busses safer for drivers and passengers in the wake of several assaults on drivers.

The city plans to review by-laws and hopefully increase fines for those who behave inappropriately on busses, as well as offering training for drivers on dealing with dangerous situations. The introduction of driver shields, closed circuit tv on busses and GPS location devices are also being considered to improve driver safety.

“Our employees should not have to worry about their personal safety when they do their jobs,” said Bob Boutilier, General Manager of Transportation for the City of Edmonton in a release. “We will not tolerate inappropriate behaviour on buses and trains, and those responsible for such behaviour will be held to account.”

There have been several attacks on bus drivers in the last two months. While some of the incidents were less serious, veteran driver Tom Bregg was attacked in December and remains in hospital. Police have charged a 24 year old man with attempted murder and aggravated assault in connection with the incident.

“Many Edmontonians rely on the convenient, cost-effective services provided through ETS,” says Boutilier. “It is my duty to make sure that our operators have a safe, secure environment in which to do their jobs, and that those people who choose to ride either the bus or the LRT can do so without concern.”