Close to 400 school bus drivers and monitors at Voyago have voted 57% to join Teamsters Local Union 879. The results of the vote, held in December after a yearlong organizing campaign, were announced on Wednesday. Workers at the company ensure that children across Southern Ontario get to school safely every day.
Low wages and unpaid work were key reasons cited for joining the Teamsters, with many workers earning between minimum wage and $21 per hour—a range that simply doesn’t reflect the important role they play in their communities, especially given the cost-of-living crisis.
Drivers raised safety concerns, including delays in vehicle repairs. Some reported incidents where buses broke down with children on board, while others described operating vehicles without functioning ventilation systems on hot days.
Monitors, who assist on some buses, have faced physical attacks from troubled children. They expressed frustration over Voyago’s lack of support, which has left them feeling both unsafe and undervalued in their roles.
“School bus drivers and monitors are entrusted with the safety of our most precious cargo. It’s unacceptable that these workers weren’t enjoying the best possible working conditions. It’s high time for change at Voyago, and for workers’ voices to be heard,” said François Laporte, President, Teamsters Canada.
“I want to congratulate the workers and the organizing committee for staying strong, positive, and confident throughout it all. A special shoutout goes to our local union trustee TJ Scott and organizer Jim Killey for their hard work,” added John McCann, President, Teamsters Local Union 879.
Work will begin over the coming weeks on negotiating a first collective agreement. Members should be on the look out for the news and updates from the local union.
Voyago employees serve several school boards, including the Thames Valley District School Board and the London District Catholic School Board, as well as some provincial schools like the Robarts School for the Deaf and the W. Ross Macdonald School for the Blind.
