Metrolinx strikes tentative deal with union for GO bus workers
Posted October 27, 2022 6:45 am.
Last Updated October 27, 2022 12:27 pm.
Metrolinx has struck a tentative deal with the union representing around 2,200 GO bus workers, averting a strike.
A potential strike deadline for workers, including GO bus drivers, safety attendants and maintenance staff was set for 12:01 a.m. on Oct. 31.
In an email obtained by CityNews, Metrolinx tells employees the Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) Local 1587 will present the tentative agreement to members next week.
“The ATU leadership have informed us that they will present the tentative agreement to their membership on Nov. 1,” reads the email sent on behalf of Martin Gallagher, Chief Operating Officer for GO Transit and UP Express. “We have confirmed that a strike will not occur on Oct. 31.”
“This is a positive development and good news for our ATU employees and our customers.”
The email notes that trains and buses will continue to operate as scheduled without interruption.
During an August vote, ATU Local 1587 members voted 93 per cent in favour of going on strike if a deal couldn’t be reached. The major sticking points for the union and its members have been job security and wages.
The union said negotiations with Metrolinx began in April and that its members have been working without a contract since June 1.
