Streetcar delays must be addressed without risking good jobs: Unifor

TORONTO, Oct. 26, 2015 /CNW/ - Unifor is expressing its commitment to working with all of the parties to resolve concerns related to the delay in the delivery of new streetcars.

Earlier this month, Bombardier Transportation advised the Toronto Transit Commission that the delivery schedule of the new streetcars will not be fully met. The streetcars are built at Bombardier's Thunder Bay facility, which is employs 1,200 people, 900 of whom are members of Unifor Local 1075.

"Unifor is optimistic that there are ways to improve productivity. We have some innovative ideas and are discussing those with the company," said Andy Savela, Unifor National Staff Representative

Bombardier Transportation is an important employer in Ontario, with close to 2,200 highly-skilled employees and over 1,000 suppliers.

"We are eager to ensure Bombardier's success," said Savela. "At a time when Canada is fighting hard to protect and create good-paying jobs, we need to ensure we do all we can to maximize the benefits that result from Bombardier Transportation's significant operations in Ontario."

Unifor indicated that it is optimistic that Bombardier, the provincial government and the TTC can find a way to address concerns and secure a bright future for Bombardier, and the thousands of Ontarians whose livelihoods depend on Bombardier's success.

"Our members are very proud to produce world-class vehicles, and have been particularly proud of the tremendously positive reception the new streetcars have found amongst TTC riders," said Savela. "We understand the TTC's concerns and the need to address them. We're asking that those concerns be addressed in a manner that does not undermine the long-term economic benefits that come from the success of Bombardier Transportation."

SOURCE Unifor

Please contact Unifor Communications Director, Sarah Blackstock at [email protected] or 416-949-1072.