Metro Vancouver bus drivers reach tentative contract deal with Coast Mountain Metro Vancouver bus drivers have reached a tentative contract deal with Coast Mountain, potentially ending an ongoing labour dispute. The agreement, announced Friday, must still be ratified by both sides. Metro Vancouver bus drivers have reached a tentative contract deal with their employer, Coast Mountain. The agreement could bring an end to an ongoing labour dispute. The tentative deal was announced by the company on Friday. No details of the agreement have been released publicly. Both sides must still ratify the contract before it takes effect. The union representing the drivers had previously warned of possible job action.The new deal may prevent any disruption to bus service in the region. Commuters had been bracing for potential delays or cancellations. The contract talks had been underway for several weeks. Wages and working conditions were among the key issues at the table.The tentative agreement suggests both parties have found common ground. If ratified, the deal will cover thousands of bus drivers across Metro Vancouver. The transit system is one of the largest in Canada. A reliable bus network is critical for the region's commuters.In other news, a passenger in medical distress was airlifted from a cruise ship 200 km northwest of Port Hardy. Field hockey is getting a showcase in the northeast, with the federal government suggesting funding for a new field is a possibility. Several OC Transpo park and ride lots are at less than 50 per cent capacity as public servants return to office. The Elks snapped their playoff drought with a 53-16 win over the Stampeders.A million-dollar lottery ticket was sold in Halifax. A national campaign is calling for better access to nicotine pouches. Top stories of the week include Sleeman claiming Sapporo plans are not finalized, confirmed tornadoes in Tavistock, and storm fallout around Waterloo Region. The Prime Ministers Path statues have returned to Baden amid ongoing debate.A man is facing 22 charges after 4 shootings in Surrey, B.C. France has apologized for human rights criticism that sparked a U.S. walkout. Conversations on trade with U.S. officials have not stopped, according to LeBlanc. CIBC has committed $2 billion in funding for small and medium-sized defence-related firms.The FBI is investigating a suspected ricin exposure at an apartment complex and hospital. Arizona has accused L'Oreal of concealing cancer risks linked to hair relaxers. The Emmys this year are trying to keep it together. Canadian boxing legend George Chuvalo has died at 89.The Olympic flame has arrived in Senegal for the first Olympic event to be held in Africa. Diana's revenge dress is going up for auction. Hundreds have fled a Croatia island fire. Alberta landowners face years-long waits for orphan well cleanup, with one saying it has been a struggle.How bear-baiting was brought to England and its 21st century legacy is also making headlines.