Metrolinx continues negotiations with union that represents GO bus drivers

TORONTO, May 30, 2014 /CNW/ - Metrolinx would like to advise its customers that it is currently in contract negotiations with the Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) Local 1587, the union that represents GO Transit bus drivers, GO station attendants, maintenance personnel, transit safety and some office staff. In total, the ATU represents 1,851 of Metrolinx's 3,191 employees.

While we are hopeful that a settlement can be reached, we are advising customers that the ATU's strike date is June 2, 2014. In the event of a labour disruption, regular GO Train service would continue to get customers to their destinations, but there would be no GO Bus service.  Additionally, there would be no weekend GO Train service to Niagara and Barrie.

Customers who would be impacted by the disruption to GO bus service are encouraged to prepare by considering other travel options. GO Train customers are also encouraged to consider alternate travel options to the GO station as there may be increased demand on rail services and parking facilities. These options could include taking local transit, bicycling, carpooling (visit www.smartcommute.ca for information on our Carpoolzone program), teleworking, etc. We also encourage customers to load their PRESTO cards online in advance.

We recognize that a labour disruption will create an inconvenience for our customers. We remain hopeful that a settlement can be reached as we continue our negotiations. We will continue to communicate updates through the GO Transit website (www.gotransit.com), Social Media channels, via our "On the GO Alerts" and via the Contact Centre. We encourage all customers to check our website daily as information will be updated as it becomes available.

Metrolinx is working to provide residents and businesses in the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area with a transportation system that is modern, efficient and integrated. Find out more about The Big Move, Metrolinx's Regional Transportation Plan for the GTHA. Find out more about GO Transit, PRESTO, and Union Pearson Express, divisions of Metrolinx.

SOURCE: Metrolinx

For media inquiries:
Anne Marie Aikins, Manager, Media Relations & Issues, 416-202-5796 or 416-576-0859