The union representing 12,000 TTC workers is moving towards a strike as the city’s transit system continues to experience disruptions. ATU Local 113 has requested a “No Board Report” from Ontario’s Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development, which is the final step before they can legally go on strike. The union has been working with a conciliator and TTC management, but key issues related to job security, wages, and benefits have not seen progress. If a “no board report” is issued, the union will have 17 days to notify the employer of their intent to withdraw services.
Last month, ATU Local 113 members approved a strike mandate, marking the first time in 16 years that the union could go on strike. Between 2011 and 2023, unionized TTC employees were considered an essential service and were not allowed to strike. However, in 2023, a court ruling overturned this, restoring the employees’ right to strike. The union has been without a deal since April 1 after the expiration of their current agreement and is prepared for a “full withdrawal of service” if negotiations do not make progress.
ATU Local 113 members are reportedly angry and upset over their treatment on the job and are focusing on protecting their future, particularly regarding job security. Despite ongoing negotiations, no strike date has been set. TTC CEO Rick Leary stated that both bargaining teams have been working hard since February to reach a fair collective agreement. The TTC values the work of all its employees, including those represented by ATU Local 113, who are crucial to the operations of the transit system.
The workers represented by ATU Local 113 include bus, streetcar, wheel-trans, and subway operators, as well as collectors, cleaning staff, and maintenance workers. Leary warned that any job action by the union would likely lead to service disruptions, which have already been occurring this spring due to incidents such as spilled hydraulic fluid on the tracks and a fire at track level. A strike by ATU Local 113 would further disrupt services, following previous disruptions and shutdowns that have occurred this year on the TTC.
The TTC and ATU Local 113 continue to negotiate a new collective agreement to replace the expired one from March 31, 2024. The bargaining teams are working to address the union’s concerns related to job security, wages, and benefits. While both sides are at the table, the union members are prepared to take action if necessary, with the potential for a full withdrawal of service looming if negotiations do not progress. The TTC acknowledges the importance of its employees, including those represented by ATU Local 113, and recognizes the challenges they face in delivering safe and reliable service. The potential for a strike by the union poses a significant threat to the transit system’s operations and could lead to further service disruptions for commuters.
