‘Call the mayor’s office,’ TTC operator appears to blame John Tory for delays

The TTC is responding to what they are calling an “unauthorized” transit announcement that apparently came from a frustrated train operator during recent subway delays.

In several videos making the rounds on social media, the voice of a transit operator can be heard providing updates to riders about a delay along the Bloor Line 2 subway.

The operators goes on to direct riders to address any complaints they may have toward Toronto Mayor John Tory and TTC customer service.

“I suggest you guys call customer service and maybe put in a complaint or two,” the operator can be heard saying in multiple shared videos. “Maybe you should even call the mayor’s office and give him a piece of your mind.”

https://twitter.com/AdamCF/status/1618453276445544450

The workers can then be heard updating passengers that trains were not moving due to no subway service between Ossington and Keele stations, adding that shuttle buses were available.

“I do apologize for the lack of communication from transit control. These guys really don’t care what you guys are doing,” the voice says.

“You should probably call (the mayor) and let him know what you think about this,” he adds. “Please voice your displeasure with the mayor’s office and customer service.”

Different video versions of the announcement started popping up on Twitter on Wednesday evening. The city was plagued by a number of traffic and transit delays throughout the day due to the first significant winter storm of the year.

The TTC says they are aware of the incident and are investigating.

“This is not an appropriate way to advise customers of delays in service,” reads a statement from TTC media relations.

With respect to a video making the rounds of an unauthorized subway announcement.
The #TTC is aware of this incident and it’s being looked into.
This is not an appropriate way to advise customers of delays in service.

— TTC Media Relations ???????????????? (@TTCNewsroom) January 26, 2023

The apparent frustration from the operator comes amid a recent spate of violence on the system that has unions calling for ensured safety for its members. Several of the recent attacks have targeted TTC uniformed staff.

Tory says he’s been in constant contact with police and the TTC about ways to improve safety and on Thursday afternoon was joined by police chief Myron Demkiw and TTC boss Rick Leary for an announcement on what they plan to do right now to curtail violent and criminal acts on the transit system.