ATU CAUTIOUSLY OPTIMISTIC ABOUT PASSED MOTIONS AT COMMUNITY COMMITTEE MEETING

WINNIPEG, August 31, 2022 –At this morning’s Community Committee meeting, a motion brought forward by Councillor Shawn Nason, Transcona Ward, for a Transit Security Force and full safety shields on buses was passed.  Additionally, Councillor Nason and Councillor Jason Schreyer, Elmwood-East Kildonan Ward, moved to prioritize the replacement of the aging bus radio communication system. Amalgamated Transit Union Local 1505 is cautiously optimistic.

“This is definitely good news and one less hurdle to overcome in making Transit safer for our workers and riders”, said Romeo Ignacio, President of the ATU Local 1505.

“However, both motions must be brought through the Standing Policy Committee on Infrastructure Renewal and Public Works, and then reported on by the Winnipeg Public Service, then to City Council for approval. Then it’s the matter of getting it implemented if it even gets approved.”

“While we are certainly happy that the conversations are taking place and thankful to Councillors Nason and Schreyer for submitting the motions, we need all of City Hall to be onboard and expedite this process”, continued Ignacio.  “Winnipeg needs safe Transit now.”

ATU is calling on the City to act immediately and install extended shields on buses, implement a Transit Security Force, and replace the obsolete radio system.

–30–