Arbitrator reaches decision on TTC collective agreement

The arbitrator selected to rule on a new collective agreement between the Toronto Transit Commission and the Amalgamated Transit Union Local 113 provided a written decision and notice of award to both parties yesterday, June 4.  Kevin Burkett outlined the terms of the arbitrated settlement, which is retroactive to April 1, 2011 for a term of three years.

The TTC and ATU Local 113 bargained in good faith, but were unable to reach a negotiated settlement. Under provincial essential service legislation, TTC employees are no longer permitted to strike, nor is the employer permitted to lockout workers.

The highlights of the award and changes to the collective agreement are as follows:
- wage increase of 2% a year in each year of the contract
- elimination of a provision where a worker does not have to provide a medical note if they’re ill for five individual days or less
- allowing the TTC to contract out up to 62% of Wheel-Trans service
- improvements to benefits, including vision, hospitalization and vacation

TTC staff will bring a report to the next Commission meeting with cost implications, as well as a recommendation to apply this award to non-unionized TTC employees.

Formal meetings and hearings were held between the TTC and ATU Local 113 dating back to February 2011. In May this year, both parties submitted written and oral submissions to Mr. Burkett for a binding decision.