AMC urges Winnipeg Transit to use surplus for complimentary bus tickets for Bear Clan Patrol
December 6, 2018
Treaty One Territory, Manitoba
AMC Communications
Treaty One Territory, MB. _ Grand Chief Arlen Dumas of the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs calls the freeze to transit fees in 2019 good news but work to keep citizens safe must be addressed.
“I am urging Winnipeg Transit to take part of their approximately $8 million surplus to support Bear Clan Patrol members by providing them with bus tickets,” said Grand Chief Arlen Dumas.
Recently three First Nations men intervened in attacks on either on a bus or at a bus stop. This prompted the Bear Clan Patrol to once again offer their services to Winnipeg Transit. Bear Clan founder James Favel has asked for complimentary bus tickets for his members to ride the bus while on patrol. However, Favel has been told this request will have to go to the Transit Advisory Committee for approval.
“Our citizens are taking their personal safety in their own hands while stepping up to protect others while on or waiting for transit. The Bear Clan has proved they are a necessary asset to the city of Winnipeg,” said Grand Chief Arlen Dumas.
Bear Clan Patrol members already ride the bus to and from their patrols and could be beneficial to the safety of riders during this time as well as in a more official capacity.
“I urge the City of Winnipeg and Winnipeg Transit to take immediate action and place Bear Clan Patrol members on buses to give all citizens a sense of security while contributing to the benefits of mass transit,” said Grand Chief Dumas.
At the recent AMC Assembly, the Chiefs-In-Assembly honoured Doug Thomas, Matthew Brian Shorting and Jonathan Meikle with eagle feathers for their acts of bravery in coming to the aid of people on the bus and at a bus stop.