The tentative deal contains important wage will increase, a greater work-life stability and different enhancements, says the Amalgamated Transit Union
After months of contract talks, a strike risk, and an intense marketing campaign, Guelph Transit employees, represented by ATU Native 1189-Guelph, ON, have reached a tentative settlement with the Metropolis of Guelph, averting a strike.
The tentative deal contains important wage will increase, a greater work-life stability, and different enhancements the Union pushed for. The employees have referred to as off tomorrow’s follow picket exterior Metropolis Corridor. The Union will maintain a ratification vote of members on the contract within the coming week.
“We are pleased to announce that after long negotiations, Local 1189 has reached a tentative agreement with the City of Guelph,” stated Native 1189 President/Enterprise Agent Scott Bate. “Our members worked hard for this contract, and we believe it strikes the right balance between meeting their needs and maintaining the high standard of service that the residents of Guelph deserve.”
Final month, after contract talks broke down, the Union filed for a No-Board report with the Ministry of Labour. Among the many key points had been pay, a greater work atmosphere, and improved work-life stability. In September, Guelph Transit employees annoyed by an absence of progress in negotiations voted 99.5% in favour of a strike if mandatory.
“Our members’ unwavering unity is the reason we have a tentative agreement they should be proud to vote on,” stated ATU Worldwide President John Costa. “Their dedication to not only fighting for a better contract but also fighting for a better public transit system for the City of Guelph inspires us all. Thank you to everyone who supported us during these negotiations. From your strike authorization to your No-Board Report to your strike threat, your solidarity made all the difference.”
The deal nonetheless must be ratified by council and the union.
“We are pleased to have reached a tentative agreement with the ATU and look forward to formalizing our new collective agreement in short order,” stated Stephen O’Brien, Appearing Normal Supervisor of Human Sources for the Metropolis of Guelph.
“We value the work of all City employees in delivering important public services to our community and are committed to negotiating settlements that are fair to employees and affordable for taxpayers. We are grateful for the efforts of all parties at the bargaining table and appreciate that this agreement will allow us to avoid service disruptions for the members of Guelph’s community who rely on Guelph Transit.”
