Author: Stephanie Gomez

ATU Local 113 speaks to the media about final step before legal strike action

by Stephanie Gomez

On Wednesday, May 15th, ATU Local 113 announced that they had requested the Ministry of Labour issue a no-board report. This is the final step towards strike action.

If no progress is made at the bargaining table, we will have no choice but to withdraw services after a report is issued.

Online/Print

TTC workers move closer to strike with no-board request (thestar.com)

TTC workers’ union takes ‘final step’ towards possible job action | CP24.com

TTC workers move one step closer to strike action as union requests ‘no-board’ report (citynews.ca)

More TTC service disruptions loom as workers inch closer to strike | Globalnews.ca

TTC WORKERS’ UNION REQUESTS NO BOARD REPORT, “FINAL STEP TOWARD POSSIBLE STRIKE” (zoomerradio.ca)

TTC eyes possibility of strike as talks continue with union – The Globe and Mail

Broadcast/Radio

*Coverage will be posted here in the coming days

 

TTC Outages and Disruptions Failing Riders more and more frequently

by Stephanie Gomez

On Monday May 13th, 200 litres of oil leaked from a subway work car on Monday, shutting down subway service between Broadview and St. George stations for much of the day.  These service delays and disruptions are happening more and more frequently, and are causing riders to be without public transportation for an entire day often.

At last month’s TTC board meeting, ATU Local 113 President, Marvin Alfred, raised questions about a hydraulic fuel spill on subway tracks that limited the ability to slow trains. President Alfred called on the TTC board to launch a full and independent review of the agency’s safety and maintenance practices. Today, our leader spoke to the media about the TTC’s lack of accountability when it comes to issues of safety.

Online/Print

TTC CEO apologizes for major outage Monday, plans to open review | CBC News

TTC head apologizes to commuters, says oil leak shut Line 2 (thestar.com)

Oil spill that shut Toronto subway line for almost a day not an isolated incident: TTC – Toronto | Globalnews.ca

Happy Mother’s Day

by Stephanie Gomez

Today, we celebrate Mother’s Day, an occasion to express gratitude, love, and respect for the incredible moms who have nurtured us and shaped us into who we are. Happy Mother’s Day!

ATU Local 113’s United Indigenous Council Red Dress Day Display

by Stephanie Gomez

ATU Local 113’s United Indigenous Council (UIC) commemorated Red Dress Day on Sunday with a display at Arrow Road. The dress featured in the display was designed and created by E J Kwandibens, an Indigenous Cultural Educator in Toronto. It was commissioned in 2022 for the UIC’s initiative to raise awareness in our work locations about the ongoing crisis of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ peoples across Canada. On Red Dress Day and every day, we reflect, grieve, and work together towards ending this ongoing national tragedy.

To learn more about the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls, please read the Executive Summary here: EXEC_cover (mmiwg-ffada.ca)

Red Dress Day

by Stephanie Gomez

Today is Red Dress Day, an occasion to remember the lives of missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ peoples across Canada. On this day centred around solidarity and awareness, ATU Local 113 encourages everyone to wear red as a symbol of unity and commitment to shed light on this ongoing crisis.

On Red Dress Day, we remember the lost lives, stand with the families still seeking answers, and commit to making a change. It’s a day to reaffirm our collective responsibility to work together towards a future where Indigenous women and girls are safe and respected.

Asian Heritage Month

by Stephanie Gomez

May 1st marks the beginning of Asian Heritage Month, an opportunity for us to learn more about the diverse culture and history of Asian communities in Canada, as well as to acknowledge the many achievements and contributions of people of Asian origin who, throughout our history, have done so much to make Canada the country we know and love.

Happy Jewish Heritage Month

by Stephanie Gomez

May is Jewish Heritage Month, a time to celebrate and honour the Canadian Jewish community’s rich history, culture, and contributions. Let’s take this opportunity to deepen our understanding, promote tolerance, and celebrate diversity. Shalom!

Happy International Workers’ Day

by Stephanie Gomez

Today marks International Workers’ Day, a celebration of labourers around the world, including Toronto’s transit workers who work tirelessly to keep this city moving. We honour your hard work, dedication, and resilience which form the backbone of our society.

On this day, we reaffirm our commitment to fair labour practices, safe working conditions, and equitable wages for all. Let’s continue to stand together in solidarity, recognizing that our strength lies in our unity. Happy International Workers Day!