Ontario, Canada: Newsroom
News Release
February 22, 2011
Ontario Responds To Toronto’s Request To Ban TTC Strikes
Proposed Legislation Would Address Unique Importance of TTC Service
In response to a request from the Toronto City Council, Ontario is introducing new legislation to ban strikes and lockouts on the city’s transit system.
The proposed Toronto Transit Commission Labour Disputes Resolution Act, 2011, to be introduced later today, responds to the City’s request to designate the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) as an essential service. The legislation, if passed, would provide for binding arbitration by a neutral third party when collective agreements cannot be reached through bargaining. The Act, if passed, also calls for a review of the legislation after a five-year period.
Today’s announcement follows consultations held between the Ministry of Labour, the City of Toronto, the TTC and all its bargaining agents.
QUICK FACTS
- Toronto City Council passed a resolution on Dec. 16, 2010 to request provincial legislation to make the TTC an essential service.
- About 1.5 million people ride the TTC every business day.
- Legislation has been used five times since 1974 to end work stoppages.
- The City of Toronto estimates that TTC work stoppages cost the economy $50 million a day.
CONTACT
- Greg Dennis
Minister’s Office
416-326-7710
Ministry of Labour
ontario.ca/labour