After a two-week transit strike in Timmins, workers and the city have reached a new contract agreement, bringing an end to the labor dispute. The strike began on Sept. 28 when 39 transit workers from union CUPE Local 1544 rejected a proposal that would have resulted in pay discrepancies among service employees. However, the union members voted over the long weekend to accept the same deal to halt the strike, considering the impact on the community, ridership, and members.
The union secretary-treasurer, Rosanna Moreau, mentioned that despite no changes by the city, the decision to accept the agreement was made to prevent further inconvenience to the public. The new four-year contract will lead to an 8% base rate increase for mechanics, a 4.5% increase for drivers, and a 1% increase for maintenance workers.
Moreau expressed that although some may be disappointed with the unchanged contract terms, the union acknowledged the support received during the strike and emphasized the need to conclude the dispute. The city aims to have all transit services, including paratransit and the Northern College Express, operational by Oct. 18, following the acceptance of the agreement.
Chief administrative officer Dave Landers highlighted the city’s commitment to fair compensation for transit employees while ensuring sustainable public transportation. Efforts are underway to resume bus services smoothly and efficiently.