Tentative Agreement Reached Between TTC and Trades Workers to Avert Strike

A potential strike at the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) was averted as a tentative agreement was reached between the TTC and the union representing more than 650 trades and electrical workers. The deal was sealed after a weekend of intense negotiations, announced CUPE Local 2, the union representing the employees.

CUPE Local 2’s president, Sumit Guleria, hailed the agreement as a significant win for their members, emphasizing the commitment to their well-being and the safety of Torontonians. The negotiated wages are aimed at alleviating the impact of the rising cost of living on the workers and ensuring a fair standard of living for them and their families.

The specific details of the agreement will remain undisclosed until the members have the opportunity to review and vote on it. This development comes amidst previous indications that the main concern in the negotiations revolved around wages.

In a statement, TTC Chair Jamaal Myers commended the efforts put forth by both sides, emphasizing that the agreement reflects a commitment to high service standards for transit riders while acknowledging the hard work of CUPE Local 2’s members.

TTC CEO Rick Leary expressed relief at the agreement, noting that it is a fair deal that is financially sustainable for the TTC and recognizes the essential work the 650 members of CUPE Local 2 perform daily to ensure the system’s safety and reliability.

The situation escalated when the Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) Local 113, representing over 10,000 transit workers, sought the Ministry of Labour‘s involvement by requesting the appointment of a conciliator as contract talks stalled. This recent development has averted any immediate service disruptions and strike actions.