Â鶹´«Ã½Ó³»­

TORONTO — The union representing Metrolinx's GO Transit bus drivers and other workers says its members have voted in favour of an Oct. 31 strike deadline if a deal isn't reached with their employer. 

Amalgamated Transit Union Local 1587 says its 2,200 members have voted 93 per cent in favour of going on strike at the end of the month "if necessary." 

ATU Local 1587 represents all GO Transit bus operators, station attendants, plant and fleet maintenance workers, transit safety officers and office professionals.

President Rob Cormier says the union's key issues include job security and job safety relating to hiring contract workers from outside companies. 

It says negotiations with Metrolinx began in April and members have been working without a contract since June 1.

Metrolinx says a strike is "unnecessary and avoidable" and it continues to negotiate with the union "in good faith," saying GO train service would continue in the event of a strike.

"Negotiations are ongoing and we will remain at the table to reach an agreement that includes the 67 improvements we have already agreed to," said a Metrolinx spokesperson. 

"Should a labour disruption occur, Metrolinx has a plan in place to ensure the continuity of services for our customers."

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Oct. 19, 2022.

The Canadian Press