Toronto Transit Workers Ready to Strike Amid Contract Disputes

Toronto Transit Workers Prepared to Strike as Negotiations Stall
Toronto, ON – The head of the union representing thousands of Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) workers, Marvin Alfred, announced on Thursday that they are prepared to strike starting Friday if their demands are not met. The Amalgated Transit Union (ATU) Local 113 and the TTC have until midnight to reach a new agreement and prevent a strike that could disrupt travel plans for commuters. The TTC, which sees an average of 1.3 million riders on weekdays, has been in negotiations with the union over wages, pensions, job security, and workplace safety amid increasing violence on buses and subways.
Alfred criticized the current state of negotiations, stating that any progress made has conditions attached and lacks authenticity. He emphasized the union’s readiness to fight for its demands, highlighting job security as a critical issue due to the rising number of agency contracts. While the deadline for negotiations looms, the TTC has assured that buses and streetcars will continue service until around 2 a.m. Friday, with subway service winding down between 2 a.m. and 3 a.m. City officials have advised residents to prepare alternate transportation plans.
Despite the imminent strike threat, the TTC remains optimistic, claiming that talks are progressing well and a fair deal is achievable. The agency values its employees and recognizes their integral role in operations. However, the city’s financial constraints complicate negotiations, with a recent report indicating a need for billions in funding over the next decade to maintain public services, including transit.
This potential strike follows a court decision last month affirming TTC workers’ right to strike, overturning a previous declaration of the TTC as an essential service. The Ontario government has stated it will not intervene with back-to-work legislation without a formal request from the City of Toronto, following legal and economic considerations.
The TTC workers’ last labor disruption occurred in 2008, marking a significant moment for labor rights in the city. With the support of different unions and advocates, ATU Local 113 stands firm in its demands, aiming to secure better conditions for its members and ensure the quality of Toronto’s public transit system.