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First Student Canada school bus drivers in Georgetown, represented by Unifor Local 4268, have ratified their first three-year agreement by 83%, gaining a 13% wage increase over the life of the contract.
“Congratulations to the bargaining committee for standing up for our First Student Bus members and negotiating a first contract for them that helps bring some financial stability in these uncertain times,” said Unifor National President Lana Payne.
Local 4268 represents 110 First Student members, who work as part-time bus drivers.
This contract also gives bus cleaners minimum wage, plus 50 cents, in all three years, and wheelchair transport bus drivers a premium rate of $2.50 per run in each year of the contract. There was also a $400 ratification bonus upon signing.
Members will also receive three paid sick days and an extra statutory holiday day for National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.
“We are proud of these members and the bargaining committee for ensuring that time worked means time paid,” said Unifor Ontario Regional Director Samia Hashi.
“A first collective agreement sets the stage for what this unit can build on today, and in the future.”
The contract will expire on Aug. 31, 2028.
The Georgetown unit services the Halton Catholic District School Board, Halton District School Board and a few routes for Conseil Scolaire Catholique MonAvenir and Conseil Scolaire Viamonde. The routes primarily service Georgetown, Milton and Acton and move roughly 6,000 students.
“We welcome these new members into our local,” said Unifor Local 4268 President Debbie Montgomery.
“This agreement is a great start in helping school bus drivers make gains in a low-wage industry.”
Last week, Local 4268 members at First Student Canada Owen Sound ratified by 85% and Kincardine at 80%.
