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Student Transportation of Eastern Ontario is responsible for getting more than 30,000 kids to and from school safely each day.
Bus companies have faced a driver shortage in recent years, with applications and background checks adding delays.
The OPP said recently due to an extensive backlog, vulnerable sector checks alone can take up to three months to process due to backlog.
With an already extensive hiring training and process, the delay in vulnerable sector checks is another barrier.
General Manager and CAO Janet Murray told us that has affected hiring this year.
Murray said they’re of course in favour of the background checks which are vital to ensure the student’s safety, but are encouraging any exploration of expediting the process so drivers can be hired sooner.
She notes every route is covered to start the year, but the shortage continues with substitute drivers.
Murray would love to pinpoint exactly why there’s been a years-long hiring shortage for bus drivers, while also knowing it’s a unique job not fit for some.
Murray also pointed out the wide-spread labour shortage and they’re far from the only company feeling the pain.
Hear her full interview below.
Story by Grant Deme