GO buses will return to the road soon after the union representing the operators and other transit workers reached a tentative agreement with Metrolinx on Thursday.

The new deal between the transit agency and the Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) Local 1587 also ended a strike that began on Monday, which had suspended GO bus service across the Golden Horseshoe region.

Also, in a statement, the ATU said the new contract "addresses union safety concerns and contracting issues," adding that it has "critical language that will protect GO Transit jobs from being contracted out."

These were the main sticking points throughout the seven-month bargaining period. The new contract came hours after talks between the union and Metrolinx resumed Thursday afternoon. Rob Cormier, president of ATU Local 1587, also told reporters at the Sheraton Hotel after the deal was made: "It’s been a tough road, but we’ve reached the end now."

Due to Bill 124, which sets public sector wages, workers will receive only a 1% increase. But the union said it was able to agree to reopen the bill if the legislation is repealed. Other details of the agreement will be disclosed once it is ratified by union members through a vote.

Also, talks with the striking GO Transit workers escalated after the union criticized Metrolinx for delaying negotiations. International ATU president John Costa said he believes the new deal will be approved. A previous offer from Metrolinx presented to members last week was rejected, adding: "I think they got a fair and respectful contract — the contract they struck for because of their disrespect. But I’m glad it’s over, they can go back to work, and we can restore service to the public."

GO bus service is expected to resume by the end of the week. Metrolinx said in a statement it is pleased with the union’s approval, which represents about 2,200 bus operators, station attendants, maintenance workers, transit safety officers, and office staff, of a three-year agreement. Additionally, Ann Marie Aikens, the lead spokesperson for the Crown agency responsible for GO Transit, said: "This is good news for ATU staff and our customers." Aikens added she hopes to resume full GO bus service on Saturday, continuing: "We need to get the buses back to the depots and provide service to them. But staff will return to their jobs tomorrow and we’ll work together to prepare service for the weekend."