Winnipeg transit union concerned about recent violence [Video]

The union representing Winnipeg transit workers is sounding the alarm over a rise in violent incidents, including attacks on operators and passengers.

The Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) Local 1505, which represents 1,400 transit workers across the province, held a rally at Winnipeg City Hall Tuesday morning. It called for an increase in safety measures to combat violence on public transit.

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“It’s the Wild West out there, and we’re basically stagecoach drivers without a six-shooter right now,” said ATU Local 1505 executive vice-president Derek Hanley.

Hanley pointed to several recent incidents, including one where a passenger pulled a gun on an operator in front of police headquarters.

“There’s not certain areas where this violence is happening,” Hanley said. “It’s all over the city, and our operators are always watching their back.”

Hanley also focused on another attack that forced an operator to exit the bus from his window …