Clock ticks down to potential Grand River Transit strike

CTV’s Heather Senoran takes a look at what may happen if Grand River Transit workers go on strike on May 1.

Grand River Transit (GRT) bus users could be left scrambling as time is running out to avoid a potential strike.

Around 850 GRT workers will be in a legal strike position as of Friday.

Unifor Local 4304 represents GRT operators, maintenance technicians, service attendants and reservationists. They have been in negotiations with the Region of Waterloo to try to reach a new agreement before their current contract expires on May 1.

The union told CTV News 48-hours notice will be given if a strike is imminent and the region has also agreed to provide 48-hours notice in the event of a lockout.

If a strike or lockout happens, all GRT buses and MobilityPlus vehicles will not run and customer service offices will be closed. ION train service will not be impacted because it is operated by Keolis.

“It’s going to take me a good hour and something just to get home,” a GRT rider in Waterloo said.

If a strike happens, it will be the third time in five-and-a-half years. There was GRT strike in January 2020 and in May 2023. Both strikes lasted for more than a week.

On Monday, Unifor said they are working to avert a strike.

“A strike is not inevitable. The region must work with us to achieve a fair collective agreement that addresses wages, scheduling, and benefits,” said Unifor national president Lana Payne, in a media release. “Unifor is committed to finding a solution at the bargaining table.”

Both the union and the region told CTV News talks will continue in the hopes that a deal will be reached.

Mobility concerns

Edward Faruzel, executive director at K-W AccessAbility, remembers the last two strikes and doesn’t want to relive it.

“People don’t use MobilityPlus because it’s fun to do. They need to use it because there are no other alternatives. If they go on strike again, it’s going to be devastating,” Faruzel said.

He said many people are on edge waiting to see if a deal will be reached.

“The anxiety levels are already through the roof with our members and people that I’ve talked to. They’re worried. They don’t know what they’re going to do. How are they going to get groceries? How are they going to go to the doctor?” he said.

According to GRT’s website, transit customers are encouraged to plan ahead and try to find alternate transportation options.