Update on negotiations between Unifor and First Student Canada

TORONTO, Nov. 17, 2017 /CNW/ - Unifor Local 4268 is currently negotiating a new contract for school bus drivers employed by First Student Canada in the Durham Region.

"In addition to the responsibility of handling a large vehicle school bus drivers are also responsible for the safety of our children, yet they continue to make much less than other professional drivers," said Unifor Ontario Regional Director Naureen Rizvi. "Unifor is negotiating with First Student for improved wages and the elimination of unpaid hours."

The drivers at First Student Ajax and First Student Brooklin service the area operated by the Durham Student Transportation Services (DSTS), which includes students at the Durham District School Board and the Durham Catholic District School Board in Ajax, Brock, Oshawa, Pickering, Scugog, Uxbridge and Whitby.

Unifor Local 4268 members are currently in a legal strike position, however a 72 hour notice will be provided in the event of any strike action. 

"We do not consider strike action lightly. Our drivers are part of the community and we understand the impact that it would have on students and their families," said Debbie Montgomery, President of Unifor Local 4268. "We're still at the table but in order to reach a fair contract First Student needs to ensure better working conditions and make these jobs viable."

Further updates on the status of negotiations will be provided as warranted.

For more information visit unifor.org/schoolbus.

Unifor is Canada's largest union in the private sector, representing 315,000 workers in every major area of the economy. The union advocates for all working people and their rights, fights for equality and social justice in Canada and abroad, and strives to create progressive change for a better future.

SOURCE Unifor