BRAMPTON, ON - Frustrated Brampton Transit workers, represented by Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) Local 1573, have overwhelmingly rejected by 99% the City of Brampton’s latest reduced contract offer.
The vote underscores the commitment of the more than 1,400 union members to uphold their rights and secure a fair contract. Despite extensive negotiations between the ATU and Brampton Transit, including two days of conciliation, talks broke down late last week.
“Brampton Transit, essentially restarted negotiations by reducing wages significantly from their previous offer while adding new concessions to their latest offer,” says Andrew Salabie, President Business of local 1573. “The resounding rejection of our employer’s latest offer has given ATU 1573 a strong strike mandate.”
The ATU takes great pride in providing safe, reliable, and accessible service to all Brampton residents who rely on public transit and will ensure that the public is given a minimum of 72 hours advance notice before strike lines and service disruptions begin.
“We are asking our transit riders to demand that Brampton City Council take control of negotiations before the pending no-board report legal strike position is in place,” Salabie continued.
In March as contract talks stalled, the Union members voted to authorize a strike if necessary. The two sides returned to the table but talks once again broke down.
“Our Brampton Transit members play an important role in ensuring the safe and reliable transit service for our riders across Brampton,” said ATU International President John Costa. “The City of Brampton put an insulting proposal on the bargaining table, demonstrating their disrespect and disdain for these workers and riders. This overwhelming rejection of their proposed contract shows the strength and solidarity of our members in their fight for the fair and just contract they deserve.”