ONTC begins lockout of 195 bus and rail mechanics in North Bay, Cochrane

NORTH BAY, Ont. – Nearly 200 train and bus mechanics were locked out of their jobs at the Ontario Northland Transportation Commission (ONTC) this morning.

The workers, members of Unifor Local 103, have been without a contract since December of 2013.

ONTC says the workers are rail and bus mechanics and employees who conduct locomotive and car repair.

They say the union was given a final offer on Nov. 6.

The 195 affected workers weren’t required to work during the 72-hour notice period, so picketing began in North Bay and Cochrane on Wednesday.

ONTC says that freight, motor and coach transportation will continue as scheduled, but their repair centre is closed until further notice.