Negotiations between the City of Brampton and the union representing more than 1,400 Brampton Transit workers have broken down, setting the stage for a possible strike in May that could lead to major service disruptions across the city.
The Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) Local 1573 announced on April 25 that it had filed a no-board report with the province, starting the countdown to potential strike action. Under Ontario labour law, workers are legally permitted to strike 17 days after the no-board report is filed. The union said it would provide three days’ notice before any strike action to allow transit riders to make alternative travel arrangements.
Talks between the union and the City reached a critical impasse during a recent conciliation meeting. The union accused the City of bad-faith bargaining, claiming the employer withdrew an already agreed-upon wage offer and introduced new concessions that would negatively affect members and their families. ATU 1573 President Andrew Salabie said the employer’s actions had only pushed both sides further apart from a fair collective agreement. He confirmed that union members, who include drivers and maintenance staff, had already voted 98 per cent in favour of strike action back in March and are now preparing for the possibility.
While the union said it remains hopeful that the City will reconsider its position, preparations for a strike are moving ahead.
In a statement to the Brampton Guardian, the City of Brampton acknowledged the ongoing negotiations and expressed appreciation for Brampton Transit employees’ contributions to frontline service. City spokesperson Natalie Stogdill said the City remains committed to negotiating a fair, multi-year agreement that balances employee recognition with fiscal responsibility for taxpayers. She also acknowledged the serious impact a strike would have on Brampton Transit riders and emphasized the City’s desire to reach a resolution.
If no agreement is reached soon, Brampton’s transit system could see a full shutdown within weeks, affecting thousands of daily riders across the community.