TOK transit operators join the union, UFCW 206

Newmarket, Ont. – November 12, 2013 – Workers at TOK Transit Limited in Newmarket, Ontario recently became the newest members of UFCW Canada Local 206 after winning their campaign to join Canada’s leading and most progressive union.

The newest members of Local 206 work as transit operators who drive buses and service elderly and physically disabled passengers for York Region Transit in Newmarket's North Division. They joined the union to obtain industry standard wages and to secure a strong voice in their workplace.

"We are proud to welcome the TOK Transit operators into the Local 206 family and we commend them for taking a stand to create a fairer workplace for themselves and their co-workers," says Local 206 President John Hurley.

First contract negotiations began shortly after the union was certified as the official bargaining agent and a collective agreement was negotiated and ratified last week. As part of the agreement, the workers will receive a 2.9 percent wage increase, improved health and welfare benefits, and a doubling in employer pension contributions.

The employees at TOK Transit Limited join many other UFCW Canada members who work in the transportation industry, including their brothers and sisters at Canadian Railcar Cleaners who voted "Yes!" to joining the Local Union earlier this year.