The Toronto Transit Commission says more homeless people are using its facility and vehicles as shelter in the winter. A Toronto Transit Commission sign is shown at a downtown Toronto subway stop on Tuesday, Jan. 31, 2023. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Graeme Roy
Toronto is on the verge of its first major transit strike in 16 years. Union leaders have indicated they are prepared to halt services, while the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) remains hopeful that a deal can be reached before the midnight deadline.
A strike could significantly disrupt the daily commute for tens of thousands of people, affecting subways, streetcars, and buses, and exacerbating the city's already heavy traffic. Unlike past strikes, swift back-to-work legislation from the province may not be immediate, as Ontario would need a request from Toronto to intervene and any legislative action could take weeks.
By 5 p.m., the largest union representing transit workers, ATU Local 113, reported no progress in negotiations. They announced a strike would commence at 12:01 a.m., citing the need for a fair agreement for their workers.
The union and TTC have an agreement to maintain service until the subway shuts down between 2 a.m. and 3 a.m., with Wheel-Trans services for disabled individuals continuing without disruption. Union president Marvin Alfred emphasized that their aim was not to leave people stranded but to signal the impending strike.
The last transit strike in 2008 was resolved in less than two days with provincial legislation. Other significant strikes, including a 23-day strike in 1970 and a 45-day work-to-rule campaign in 1989, also ended through legislative action.
TTC chair Jamaal Myers expressed optimism that negotiations would continue and avoid a strike, and TTC spokesperson Stuart Green mentioned the progress and goodwill in ongoing talks. However, Alfred dismissed these claims, asserting the union's readiness to strike.
Key issues for the union include wages, benefits, and job security, particularly against contracting out jobs and transferring services to other transit operators in the Greater Toronto Area. Specific negotiating terms from both sides have not been disclosed.
The right for TTC workers to strike was restored after a judge ruled the provincial law deeming them essential workers unconstitutional. The Ontario Federation of Labour has voiced strong support for the transit workers, highlighting their preparation and solidarity over the past 12 years when their right to strike was suspended.
