Metrolinx says strike averted, tentative agreement to be presented to union on Nov. 1

TORONTO — Metrolinx says a strike by some GO Transit workers has been averted and a tentative offer will be presented to union members.

An internal memo obtained by The Canadian Press says an offer will be presented to the members of the Amalgamated Transit Union Local 1587 on Nov. 1 for a vote.

The memo by Martin Gallagher, chief operating officer at Metrolinx, says the transit agency has confirmed a strike will not occur at the end of October.

Gallagher says this is “a positive development” and that trains and buses will continue to operate as scheduled.

ATU Local 1587 could not be immediately reached for comment.

The union representing Metrolinx’s GO Transit bus drivers and other workers said last week its members had voted in favour of an Oct. 31 strike deadline if a deal wasn’t reached with their employer.

President Rob Cormier said the union has been without a contract since June 1, and its key issues include job security and job safety related to hiring contract workers from outside companies.