HSR workers might be going on strike soon

If you’re a Hamiltonian, especially one who relies on public transit, you’ve likely heard of the tensely looming strike being put forth by HSR workers and drivers.

In a statement released by the City of Hamilton today, Monday December 2nd, the city expresses that it has been in negotiations with the Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) Local 107 since February of 2019 regarding a contract settlement for local HSR drivers, mechanics, and other transit workers. As of now, a mutual agreement and settlement has not yet been reached.

For much of this year, HSR employees have publicly aired grievances about dissatisfactions with their existing working conditions, including factors such a salary, benefits, and limited access to bathroom breaks.

Negotiations Update. pic.twitter.com/VFZ2pZwdrb

— ATU Local 107 (@ATU107) November 26, 2019

Today, the Ontario Minister of Labour has issued a ‘no-board’ notice, meaning that as of its release, the notice kicks off a 17-day timeline that could see HSR workers on legal strike as soon as December 19th, 2019.

The statement goes on to express the hopes that a fair settlement can be reached before a strike action takes place, and that the city will notify the public of pending service impacts “extensively” before potential disruption occurs.

Here’s hoping an equitable settlement can occur between all involved parties, so that HSR workers can stay on the job under fair working conditions and transit-taking Hamiltonians won’t have to worry about their daily commutes.

Ongoing updates on negotiations and possible transit service impacts can be found on the HSR’s website.

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