The union representing thousands of transit workers in Toronto announced that its members voted "overwhelmingly in favor of" a strike mandate.

The Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) Local 113, which represents 12,000 transit workers who operate and maintain the TTC, said the membership vote took place on Friday evening. According to a press release issued on Monday, the union stated that 9,253 members participated in the voting process, with 98.28 percent voting in favor of the strike.

"The overwhelming support for the strike is a clear message to the TTC, the city, and the province that our members are ready to take action. Marvin Alfred, president of ATU Local 113, said in a written statement: "We are following the direction of our members."

Earlier this month, the union said it took the "first step" toward labor action when it applied to the Ministry of Labor for the appointment of a conciliator after contract talks stalled. The last contract expired on March 31, 2024.

"Our union's intention has always been to work with the employer in negotiations to reach a new and fair agreement; however, if no progress is made and the TTC refuses to see the perspective of transit workers, we must move forward with a complete service withdrawal."

"It is clear that our members are angry and frustrated with the way they have been treated at work. We take pride in our work and know the value of what we do. We have the right to protect our future and are prepared to fight for job security.”

The potential labor action would be the first time in 13 years that unionized TTC workers could legally strike after a court ruling last year overturned Ontario's designation of the TTC as an essential service.

The last time ATU Local 113 went on strike was in 2008.