Some YRT workers to vote on contract Friday
Posted January 4, 2012 9:21 am.
This article is more than 5 years old.
There could be relief in store for frustrated commuters in York Region as some transit workers are set to vote on a contract offer this week.
The York Region Transit (YRT) strike began Oct. 24 and previous attempts at contract talks between the three private contractors and two union locals had failed.
Miller Transit employees will vote on a deal on Friday.
Miller Transit, First Canada and Veolia Transportation are contracted by the region to provide transit service. Miller and First Canada workers are represented by the Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) Local 1587. Veolia workers are represented by ATU Local 113.
There are reports Veolia workers will also vote on a contract offer next week. First Canada employees are still waiting for a deal.
The unions had previously rejected offers, but the Ontario Labour Board forced a vote.
In December, York Region Council insisted it wouldn’t intervene in the dispute by requesting provincial back-to-work legislation or calling for binding arbitration. Region officials have repeatedly stressed the need for the contractors and unions to return to the bargaining table.
The strike affects 60 per cent of YRT service and affects about 44,000 people.
