If GRT strikes Monday riders will need to make alternate plans

CBC News
March 18, 2017

Region and Union to negotiate face to face on Sunday, says region CAO.

Thousands of people who rely on public transit in the Region of Waterloo may have to make alternate plans to get to work Monday morning if a strike by Grand River Transit/Mobility PLUS operators, dispatchers, fleet mechanics and service attendant employees goes ahead.

638 workers who are represented by UNIFOR local 4304 voted 98 per cent in favour of strike action and have set the deadline to negotiate a deal for 12:01 a.m. Monday, March 20, 2017.

Mike Murray, the Chief Administrative Officer for the region told CBC both sides will meet face-to-face this Sunday for formal negotiations after holding informal discussions this week.

“There are monetary issues related to wages and benefits and non-monetary issues related to terms and conditions of the collective agreement,” said Murray.

If the strike occurs all conventional bus, Bus Plus and Mobility PLUS services used by 66,000 riders a day will be disrupted.

The Region is suggesting regular riders find alternative ways to get to their daily destinations including:

Carpooling.
Driving.
Walking.
Cycling.
Hailing a ride.
Working from home.

Regular updates will be posted to the GRT website and the Region of Waterloo website.

Source: If GRT strikes Monday riders will need to make alternate plans

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