ATU Local 1189 Hopes City Comes to Table with Fair Deal

GUELPH, ON - The more than 260 frustrated Guelph Transit workers have set a strike date effective 12:01 am on November 7 as negotiations with the City of Guelph have not improved. The workers' union, Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) Local 1189, is warning riders that there will be no transit service unless a tentative agreement is reached.

In preparation for their strike the workers will be holding a practice picket outside City Hall on Wednesday, November 6 from 7:30-9:30 a.m. as the Union and the City continue negotiations in hopes of reaching a fair agreement.

"We hope to reach a deal at the table this week and are prepared to continue bargaining at the table if the City comes prepared with a much better offer and no concessions. Otherwise, we must respect that our members, Guelph Transit workers, voted 99.5% in favour of a strike if the City is not willing to negotiate a fair contract - and that's what we will do," said ATU Local 1189 President/Business Agent Scott Bate. "We are giving advance notice to ensure our passengers have time to make alternate travel arrangements."

Last month after contract talks broke down, the Union filed for a No-Board report with the Ministry of Labour. Among the key issues are pay, a better work environment, and improved work-life balance.

"Our members don't want to go on strike because we know how crucial our work is to ensure safe and reliable transportation provided by our experienced bus operators," said ATU International President John Costa." Our Guelph Transit members have the full support of our membership across Canada and the U.S. For the sake of our riders and our community, we hope the City will come back to the table this week to give these workers the fair contract they deserve."

What: Guelph Transit Workers - Practice Picket Outside City Hall

Who: ATU Local 1189 President, Scott Bate
ATU International Vice President, Ken Wilson
ATU Canada President, John Di Nino

When: November 6, 2024 - 7:30-9:30 am

Where: Guelph City Hall