ATU Local 113 will fight to keep transit out of the hands of the private sector – wherever and whenever we see it happen. That’s why our members joined together with hundreds of Ontarians at Queen’s Park for the Keep Transit Public rally. Transit workers, advocates and riders all had one message for Ontario Liberal Leader Kathleen Wynne and Progressive Conservative Leader Doug Ford: we won’t standby as you try to upload the TTC subway and put it on the fast track to privatization.
With an imminent election, keeping transit public must be a priority for all candidates and parties. We were proud to see New Democratic Leader Andrea Horwath show her support for our campaign, emphasizing the value of public transit to the everyday lives of Torontonians. Like Ms. Horwath, we think it’s important to make transit available to everyone no matter where you live or how much you earn – that means keeping it public.
Our very own ATU Local 113 member, Richard Freitas, also spoke at the rally alongside ATU Canada president Paul Thorp. Richard reminded us all what happens when private companies get involved in our public transit systems. We won’t let the Liberals and Progressive Conservatives forget that private contractors cost more, deliver less, cut corners and take longer to get projects done.
Watch a video of the event here.
Let’s keep transit accountable to the people who use it – let’s keep it public. Learn more about the Keep Transit Public campaign and get involved: http://www.keeptransitpublic.ca/