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(WINNIPEG TRANSIT / FILE) (WINNIPEG TRANSIT / FILE)

A new poll commissioned by the union representing Winnipeg Transit employees says the majority of citizens want to see the provincial government share the cost of transit with the City of Winnipeg.

The Probe Research survey, conducted on behalf of the Amalgamated Transit Union 1505, shows 79 percent of Winnipeg residents want the province to restore its 50-50 funding deal with the city.

“We see this as a clear indication that Winnipegers value transit services and see a role for the province in protecting and enhancing them,” said Aleem Chaudhary, president of the Amalgamated Transit Union 1505.

“Even we were surprised at the positive response from across our city and we’re hopeful that both the provincial government and city council candidates are listening to voters.”

The Progressive Conservative government previously cancelled their cost-sharing agreement with the city, leading to a 25-cent fare increase for riders. Several proposed route cancellations were eventually averted.

The union says a lack of provincial support for public transit in Manitoba’s capital puts more strain on an already stressed transit system as the city’s population grows.

Chaudhary says the union would like to see the funding restored, whether it be through general revenues or from the provincial carbon tax.

Probe Research surveyed a random and representative sampling of 600 adults residing in Winnipeg between June 5 and 19, 2018.

The Amalgamated Transit Union 1505 represents 1,400 transit operators and maintenance workers in Winnipeg and Brandon.