Local 113-Toronto, ON, Notches Big Organizing Wins at Embattled Eglinton Crosstown LRT
In historic victories for our Union, Electricians and Skilled Trades and Facility Maintenance Technicians working for the embattled Eglinton LRT line contractor, Crosslinx, have voted to join our Local 113-Toronto, ON. These mark the first wins in our Union’s campaign to organize all light rail projects in the Greater Toronto Area.
Workers Get a Voice Through Collective Bargaining
“These workers feel that they can fix their issues of scheduling, skilled trade premiums, and more through collective bargaining with our Union,” said Local 113 President/Business Agent Marvin Alfred. “These employees now have a voice on the job to raise standards and improve the service so it can finally get running. Congratulations to these workers on the first of many victories. They stood together to win change for all.”
Building on the United to Win Campaign
Local 113 launched its organizing campaign after its hallmark United to Win campaign in 2024, which saw them secure one of the best union contracts in the history of the Local.
Eglinton Crosstown LRT is opening six years after it was originally scheduled to open, and 15 years after construction began. It has been billions over budget. The inability to meet construction targets was not only a Crosslinx issue. Our Local was also frustrated with Metrolinx’s failure to start service on time and lack of transparency regarding the problems. However, these 27 workers exhausted every avenue to fix their scheduling issues with management. They refused to tuck tail and fold to management’s demands, instead they chose to unite and fight to improve their lives by joining the ATU.
Focus for Upcoming Negotiations
As they prepare for upcoming negotiations, the Local will be focusing on better scheduling, higher wages, safety, and other improvements.
“We welcome these workers at Eglinton Crosstown LRT to our ATU family. They will now have a stronger voice and respect in the workplace and look forward to negotiating a strong first contract,” said International President John Costa. “Congratulations to our Local 113 on this monumental win. It will open doors to organize more light rail workers across Toronto. This is not only a victory for these workers, but for the riders and the community to ensure the safe and reliable operation of the LRT.”