York Region Transit strike update: Union will return to bargaining table if asked but strike will continue until there is a settlement or agreement to arbitrate

TORONTO, Dec. 5, 2011 /CNW/ - In a new development in the six-week transit strike, York Region has posted a notice on Facebook that the contractors are willing to resume negotiations with ATU Locals 1587 and 113. Local 1587 represents 350 workers at Miller Transit and First Student. Local 113 represents 220 workers at Viva, which is owned by Veolia.

"We have not been contacted by the contractors yet but we will return to the bargaining table if invited and make every attempt to reach a fair and reasonable settlement," said Bob Kinnear, president of Local 113.

"We tried to resume negotiations weeks ago but were rebuffed by the employers, just so the record is clear on that point."

After being told by the contractors in early November that the companies' final offers would not be changed despite the withdrawal of services, the union proposed ending the strike immediately if the contractors agreed to a neutral arbitration process. This offer was rejected by both the contractors and York Region Chairman Bill Fisch.

"Our offer to end the strike immediately through arbitration still stands," said Kinnear. "But the strike will continue until there is a settlement or an agreement to arbitrate.

"If we go back to work without a settlement, there will be no incentive for the employers to make a fair and reasonable offer. They had their chance back in October and they blew it. Maybe this time they'll make a serious offer. We certainly hope so."

Should negotiations resume, the union will not be giving media interviews concerning the talks until there is a breakthrough or a breakdown.

For further information:

Bill Reno, 416-223-7366