Reports say that 11 PHARA (Physically Handicapped Adults’ Rehabilitation Association) employees will be out of work come July 31st.
The three Para Bus dispatchers and eight drivers will, according to a release from PHARA, be given generous severance packages and have been provided more than 16 weeks of working notice.
PHARA says it is terminating what it calls a “joint venture” agreement between the organization and the City of North Bay in which PHARA employees operate the accessible bus service within North Bay. The City owns, funds, and maintains the Para Buses.
PHARA says the decision was “challenging and difficult,” but the organization will instead focus on providing attendant care and housing services.
The City of North Bay has released a statement regarding the PHARA situation.
The City of North Bay has received notice from PHARA that they will be discontinuing the partnership for the provision of transportation services for physically challenged persons effective July 31, 2018.
During this period, the City will be exploring options to ensure the continuance of these services. In the meantime, service will continue through our partnership with PHARA.
Additional information will be shared with users of the system once a transition plan has been finalized.
