Talks to resume today between Metrolinx, GO bus workers’ union

Negotiations are set to resume Thursday between Metrolinx and the union representing 2,200 striking GO bus workers.

Earlier this week, Metrolinx had offered to restart talks on Friday but the Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) accused the transit operator of delaying talks, and the agency agreed to meet a day earlier.

The president of ATU Local 1587 says he hopes the two sides can come to an agreement that addresses the workers’ concerns to ensure a safe and reliable public transit system for riders.

“Since contract talks broke down on Sunday, we have been willing to meet with Metrolinx anytime and place to get a deal to end this strike so our riders who depend on GO Transit buses can get to work, school, and other important destinations,” said Rob Cormier.

“We are glad they have agreed to meet a day earlier and hope we can come to an agreement that addresses our concerns and other issues to ensure a safe and reliable public transit system for our riders.”

GO bus workers, including drivers and station attendants, have been on strike since Monday, suspending bus service and stranding thousands of commuters. ATU says they will remain off the job until a deal is reached.

The union says Metrolinx did not put forward a proposal Sunday that addressed key bargaining concerns, including a commitment to hiring more full-time workers and protections against contracting work to outside companies.

Metrolinx claims the union tabled new issues in weekend negotiations that couldn’t be addressed before Monday’s strike deadline.

The workers had originally planned to strike on Oct. 31 but pushed back the date in order to vote on the most recent offer which was soundly rejected by its members. The bus workers have been without a contract since April and say their main sticking points have been safety and job security.

GO train service, and the UP Express continue to operate normally.