ATU president rescinds request urging members to ditch uniforms in retaliation for firings, other issues

The president of the Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) 279 has rescinded his request asking members not to wear their uniforms to work.

Clint Crabtree told CityNews Ottawa that a meeting has been scheduled with OC Transpo to discuss a multitude of concerns and issues relayed by OC Transpo staff on Friday Sept. 22.

“She gave me her word commitment and we’re going to work toward that together,” Crabtree told CityNews on Thursday Sept. 21. “I think the goal and the common goal should be to improve the place—improve the environment.”

Earlier today, Crabtree asked members to only wear regular clothing to work until further notice.

In a statement issued to CityNews Ottawa, Renée Amilcar, the general manager of OC Transpo said she had a meeting with Crabtree earlier today to discuss concerns and potential solutions, adding the two sides will continue to meet weekly and work together to resolve any issues impacting OC Transpo employees.

“OC Transpo is committed to fostering a workplace culture built on strong, open communication with our employees,” said Amilcar’s statement. “The management team meets regularly with the unions, to receive feedback from employees and find constructive solutions. This relationship is important to continue to grow a healthy workplace and is why we continue to work collaboratively together.”

In a letter sent to ATU members, Clint Crabtree is asking members not to wear OC Transpo uniforms in retaliation of two members getting fired this week, as well as many other “toxic” actions members been facing in the last several months.

“This Executive Board and all ATU 279 members are fed up with the style of management OC Transpo is currently under,” the letter said. “We need to stand together united, to fix all of the working conditions and the toxic work environment, that exists today.”

The letter also points to the amount of unjustified discipline and lay-offs garage attendants have faced, as well as unrealistic bus scheduling that puts operators safety in jeopardy.

Crabtree also notes the numerous resignations of members due to a lack of work-life balance, saying a 12-year mechanic packed up and left this week when understaffing and unfair wages are ongoing issues.