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June 22, 2009 at 5:12:36 PM
Danny
The people of Toronto should take all their trash to city hall and dump it there. We have paid our taxes for this service. If you paid for a service you should get the service. Since Mayor Miller does not know how to run a city. I would tell all people of Toronto cut the plastic from the street bids put your trash there and for your home trash take it to city hall and leave it there.

June 22, 2009 at 5:16:10 PM
Drew
This is nothing short of a declaration of WAR against the citizens of Toronto by CUPE 416 and 79.

People are losing their jobs enmasse, businesses are struggling for survival and these union goons are piling on?

Absolutely brutal what they are doing to the taxpayer - the taxpayer who provides them with good lives - to protect their profoundly exoborant pay and benefits during a recession.

June 22, 2009 at 5:25:33 PM
Ken
The follow in ward 34 must sit back and keep out of what he does not know its kinda funny how he is talking last i herd he is not sitting in the union meetigs with the city and locals 416 and also 79 he has to sit back and wait just like the rest of us the city is to blame not the union or its workers

June 22, 2009 at 5:40:55 PM
nik r
As a tax payer i say... screw the garbage people. Toronto has over 50 000 people on welfare, about %50 of them are healthy and able to work. I say put the to work, picking up trash, taking care of our parks. there is also all the people who have lost thier jobs and are on EI, why not put them to work as well...

i say let them go. do not renew the contract.
play hard ball with these people

June 22, 2009 at 5:48:13 PM
nicole maceachern
i understand the unions point of view that they only want the wages and rights that other city worker have. what the union need to understand is that we are in the middle of a recession and the city is struggling to get back on its feet and recover from it. We as tax payer can not afford more taxes to pay their salaries that they are demanding. They have pick the worst time to do this as summer is starting and tourist are coming in for the summer and I am sure they will be going back to where they cam from and telling everyone how nasty Toronto is because of this strike. why can they not be happy with what they have? I am sure none of the worker are in need or have any problems paying their bills. they need to get over themselves.

June 22, 2009 at 5:50:15 PM
Michele
I hope that the unions stay on strike (until Christmas if need be) until they accept the new concessions the city negotiator has put forward. Toronto is BROKE ... all the city workers in all branches have to get a 10% wage and benefit cut right now (that includes police and firefighters). You can't keep increasing taxes because businesses are leaving and will leave on mass in the next 2-5 years because this city is a joke!!!

June 22, 2009 at 6:05:15 PM
David McAfee
Right out - I am an employee of the city of toronto - and a relatively new employee - about 1 year. I fully understand many of the concerns of the citizens of toronto and the inconveniences they have to endure and I also understand how the issues primarily portrayed by the media do possibly not reflect the whole issues. What does seem to be missing is that in these economic times, all city workers are exposed to the same situation as all the citizens of toronto, we all pay the same taxes increased as they are, and the most highlighted issue of sick days was an agreement made in place of an increased pay deal as sick days are easier to offer than a raise at the time - and the bottom line is they were part of a deal made at the time as part of a whole deal.

June 22, 2009 at 6:05:38 PM
Peter
I don't disagree that certain inside workers work very hard (like day care workers), but what is particularly angering is the garbage workers who play the victims because they are losing out on sick days, when they proudly boast to all who are within earshot how they only work 4 hours each day and spend the rest of their shifts either at home having lunch or back at the yard playing cards. I say that the government do an independent investigation to see if these workers are really worth their inflated benefits and salaries and then the public can decide on their fate after the truth is revealed.

June 22, 2009 at 6:05:46 PM
sam
i'm not sure exactly what these folks are asking but one thing rings true because the same bs is happening at my company...they always want more for less...more work less pay. yet the people at the top ceo's the mayor, city council folks etc..how is it their pay is NEVER affected. How is it there is always money for their "perks" and no one makes a fuss. has anyone really taken a look at what they are paid? how come there is no out cry about that???

June 22, 2009 at 6:06:45 PM
Hollywood
Remember you will be fined for dumping trash illegally. Unfortunately, you will not be given access to the dumping areas by the striking workers. Welcome to Toronto the Good? not hardly. Its a joke.

June 22, 2009 at 6:08:28 PM
Sarah
I'm Still wondering why garbage collection isn't considered an essential service in the city. Last year the TTC workers were forced back to work... Why can't the same thing happen here. The city is going to be disgusting.

June 22, 2009 at 6:09:28 PM
mike
i say take your garbage to a striking workers home,or a cupe members home,i'm tracking those down,will post later

June 22, 2009 at 6:14:56 PM
Vicki, Toronto
I'm extremely disappointed in the lack of professionalism on the part of the picketers and the false information on law they are giving out. In the current economic state, they should consider themselves lucky to be employed. This strike is creating serious inconveniences and health issues to the public. After being told by a picketer today that "by law there is a 5 minute protocol to stop people from entering the building", I did some research, no where in the legislation does it indcate this! Get your information right!

June 22, 2009 at 6:18:25 PM
Mike
Did you people notice that every single strike or a problem has a word "union" in it? Be it city services, auto industry problems, companies going bankrup etc etc.

The key word that appears in every one of these instances is UNION.

Connect the dots yourselves.

June 22, 2009 at 6:37:15 PM
J
There are tons of people who want to find a job. Find new employees!

June 22, 2009 at 7:23:05 PM
Adam
As a younger 27 year old triplex owner, and landlord, I am extremely pissed off at this stupid strike. As mentioned in the article, EVERYONE is suffering in the economy right now, not just YOU, so get back to work!! What am I supposed to do with all my tenant's trash and recycling now? I feel like dumping it in YOUR BACKYARD. Maybe I should form a facebook coalition to do just that... You guys and the TTC get NO SYMPATHY from toronto citizens. You get paint TOO MUCH already and WHINE and COMPLAIN too often. Grow up and be grateful for once you have a job! Like I always said to my employees.... NOBODY IS KEEPING YOU AT YOUR JOB. YOU CAN QUIT IF YOU DON'T LIKE IT. THERE ARE 100,000+ PEOPLE WHO WILL GLADLY TAKE YOUR PLACE JUST TO HAVE A JOB!

June 22, 2009 at 7:24:57 PM
lauril
H'mm, I wonder how many of these union workers actually live in the City of Toronto? For those that do, have they thought of the fact that their personal taxes are affected by the unrealistic expectations they have? Do they complain about how much they pay and how service levels are declining because the City cannot afford to maintain?

I'm not sure what fantasy land these folks are living in. Unions served their purpose in the age of the Industrial Revolution when the worker had absolutely no rights. In developed countries, legistlation is in place to protect every facet of the employee. Last time I checked Canada is a well developed country.

June 22, 2009 at 7:28:59 PM
David, Toronto
This article is offensive in stating that "Essential Services are not effected." It made no mention that Toronto Emergency Medical Services are on strike. How are they not an essential service? Neither Fire nor Police have any ability to deal with medical emergencies (beyond advanced first aid). I admit the pay and benefits of some Union services such as garbage may be a little inflated, but ultimately it is only just they they recieve the standard other civic empoyees have recently been given. You probably would not want their job would you? Perhaps you physically couldn't do it? The concessions the city is demanding such as loss of seniority is outrageous. Most of what's being fought for are items that the workers have fought hard for for years in the past.

June 22, 2009 at 7:33:23 PM
Andrea
If you want the job security of civic employees or their respective benefits, than perhaps you should apply to the city for employment. For those of you hating on the workers, I advise you to educate yourselves of the issues being fought over by the union before making you condemnation. This isn't a case of the TTC union holding the city hostage - the city is holding the workers and the toronto hostage right now, voice your concern to the city (and leaving you garbage at city hall isn't a horrible idea).

June 22, 2009 at 7:39:01 PM
Robert
about the paramedic workers - perhaps they should separate from this union, they don't seem to fit the bill. From the things they see and deal with, how could you take away the sick bank they have? That's crazy - if I saw babies dying and had their sometimes painful job, I think I'd want at least what Fire and Police get. And whats up with them not being an "essential service?" That doesn't make any sense.

June 22, 2009 at 7:40:16 PM
Jessica
Greed!!! Don't unions realize the health concerns on people who have respiratory problems, like asthma and lung and heart disease affect children and adults from the affecting stench of garbage, and all they care about money?? That is shameful and greed and its disgusting!!! I say ban unions all together, get private like York Region, and they actually do the work. I have a heart condition, bad enough the air quality is bad and now this nonsense!!!! I think when it the next city election, no one vote for Miller, everytime i turn around, TTC strike, Garbage Strike, daycare strike, and it ridiculous and this is what my taxes goes towards people striking!!! Be happy you guys have a job!!

June 22, 2009 at 8:04:08 PM
Colin M
I like living in Durham! ahah

June 22, 2009 at 8:05:58 PM
andy
So we paid more for the large bins and the new waste disposal process and this is what we get ? So will the city write us a check for all the Non-Serviced days during this strike ?
I think someone needs to hold the City Accountable. Period.
The buck stops at the Mayor and if he cannot come to concensus with CUPE, direct consequences need to be tied to his job.

June 22, 2009 at 8:09:07 PM
uNKOWN
I believe the city will smell with garbage adding up in the streets. This is a essential service. The union should negotiate without disrupting the workers. I am sure that the politicians will consider a post bill.

June 22, 2009 at 8:43:57 PM
Alex
It's clear that city workers are simply delusional. In the private sector, I get 5 sick days a year! To content that, in the worst economy in decades, 18 is somehow reasonable (and that we should pay out for unused ones at retirement) is an insult to anyone who pays taxes.

City works simply have no grasp on reality.

June 22, 2009 at 8:48:41 PM
john
I will throw my garbage somewhere, anywhere, I don't care. I pay taxes and come to think of it, I actually have to do extra work to do so!

June 22, 2009 at 8:52:55 PM
Alessandro
We must not give in people.We don't have the cash,it's time we privitize garbage collection anyway.
Daycares are another story,but here we go again,round and round we go,where the buck stops no one really knows.

June 22, 2009 at 9:07:40 PM
dane_proulx
Hard to believe that after day one of employees fighting for the right to have what they have been agreed to and been promised should cause such simplistic angry retaliations.

June 22, 2009 at 9:09:07 PM
Janik
Mr. Mayor do not legislate! The strike must go on as long as it possibly can. Do I favor the strikers? Not at all.
Other unions weren’t asked to reduce their wages? I agree: they should all get the same treatment. City councilors & MPPs got raises... Know what? They chose to run for office you chose to put them there by voting them in (or not voting)…
In our free world you have choices: you can run for parliament and we have a choice to elect you or not...
And while we’re on the subject of choice, if getting new streetcars is so bad, submit the whole thing to a vote: new streetcars or give the already well-paid city workers a raise? Are you sure you want to hear the answer?

June 22, 2009 at 9:33:40 PM
Thomas
Mayor Miller & the Councilors have to set an example by cutting some of their perks. They don't need a $53,000.00 office budget.
The city needs to cut welfare to healthy people. What the city saves this year, they won't get next year. They want to spend billions to spruce up the water front. I don't mind paying a little bit more to help a person save their job. Not everyone can work for the Govt. For those of us who do, good for them.The odds of people winning 6/49 is 14 mill to one. But people keep buying lottery tickets. I get 24 sick days per year and I can save them up for pay out.

June 22, 2009 at 9:51:42 PM
uNkNoWn
Union CEOs paid big money, they only interested in that. The more union members get in benefit and salary, the more money go to union bosses. Let's say you dont like your job, then leave, more (and better) people will come and replace you.

June 22, 2009 at 10:01:42 PM
Janik
Can we get a sunshine girl dressed in a "garbage" bikini at some point lol?

June 22, 2009 at 10:10:08 PM
vito
I am outraged by this strike. as a student who works at a summer camp to earn summer money i can't go to work. i think what the union is doing is very selfish and is going to do nothing but negatively affect the city. the unions have become to powerful and they can hold a city hostage. with the swine flu virus at pandemic levels i dont see how allowing the city to fill up with trash.

June 23, 2009 at 11:26:15 PM
lionel simmons
To all the city worker,I work on the island .went i don"t go to work i do not get pay, Know boats no work .how to pay the rent. just because of sick days.it not fair

June 23, 2009 at 11:48:03 PM
Terry
From City TV's coverage that I've seen, Locals 79 & 416 HAVE VALID issues to STRIKE if there is "TRUTH" to unfairness across the board. It has been said that one sector of City Staff signed contracts to KEEP bargained agreements made for decades, but at the cost of Local 79 & 416 workers who have to STRIKE AND LOSE PAY to FIGHT to keep the exact same. Mr. Mayor, you said on TV "fairness" was to be applied to ALL? Uhm...Your recession excuse does not explain this discrepancy ... why the bias? And I don't even work for the City, I'm retired ...but even I can see this strike is a no-brainer if that issue TRULY IS the case here??? Please answer that question in DETAIL next time on TV.
Thank You.

June 23, 2009 at 11:54:39 PM
Steve (North York)
The unions for the city of Toronto need to get united with reality for a change.

Get to work. Do your job. And quit your moaning and grumblings.

June 23, 2009 at 11:55:02 PM
Jeff
I can't believe the audacity of anyone striking these days! I would gladly fill in. I've lost my job do to the currant economical situation. I'm sick of unions and what they have done to North America. There is no place for unions anymore. Different forms of actions are more effecive. You have it sweet already! Grow up!!!

June 23, 2009 at 12:06:13 AM
Mona Dhanjal
We should take Windsor's lead. Residents there are taking matters into their own hands, fed up with being held prisoner by the eight week (plus) strike there. This is an opportunity for residents of this "world class city" to prove what we are made of. As long as we rely on others for our "essential services" we will always be at the mercy of strikes like this one. I, for one, am willing to volunteer to make sure the children signed up for Munchkins Camp at Trace Mains (my five year old, included) aren't disappointed, if their three hour camp is cancelled. It seems ludicrous to me that there are animal services that are kept open while wading pools and children's camps are being cancelled, Riverdale Farm and libraries are being closed, and ferry service to the Islands has been cancelled -- right at the beginning of summer vacation, for so many innocent children. And, once the garbage starts piling up the way it did in 2002, we must all be prepared for airborne illness and polluted water to take over the city more voraciously than it has done, with these city workers doing their jobs. I believe the unions serve a purpose, but what's happening here is not remotely just. David Miller and his City Hall had better sort this out in a hurry, or he can say goodbye to his seat in City Hall.

June 23, 2009 at 12:18:36 AM
Case Jones
People should be allowed to "not work", but they shouldn't be allowed to block other people from working by physically blocking access to garbage facilities.

The city should resolve the issue quickly, or return the tax money to private citizens and require them to solve the problem themselves.

June 23, 2009 at 12:30:43 AM
Paul Hurl
I am a member of local 416 all we are asking for is relativly the same deal that the City gave other locals the TTC,the police the firefighters Toronto Parking Athority,The City is using the recession as a excuse for trying to gut our contract to the core yet they councillors voted them themselves a raise and sighned contracts with every other local without gutting there collective agreements.Also if you really want to find taxpayers dollars waisted you would have to look at the pay the managers,general supervisors,assistant general supervisors,supervisors assistant supervisors,I work at 1008 Yonge st.We have supervisors tripping all over each other,if every department in the the city is run the same way,no wonder there is no money for the peole in the ditches take a closer look you will see what I mean,cronyism and nepotism runs wild within the City

June 23, 2009 at 12:36:57 AM
DoyouliveinTO?
I wonder how many city workers live in Toronto?
Many TTC workers do not & I think it will be the same.
You should not be able to work for the city unless you live in the city.
As for the people that do if there is not enough cash to pay them then the city should reduce the workforce. Businesses in the private sector layoff staff why can the city not do the same. I say give them the benifits they are asking for and reduce the workforce to pay for it. It is a mater of greed. A person working at the nations most popular coffee place works very hard all day yet make a great deal less than a city employee.

June 23, 2009 at 1:28:23 AM
Steve
Just like these city workers are doing striking as a city we should all do the same. But not because of money but to wake up the people in power. "If you dont like your job somebody can replace you" One who stated it should be performing those duties, as these services are just convince factors. And in our current state people like to take advantage and manipulate/ threaten others just because they can and there is nothing there to prevent it from occuring a side from the Great Unions. who support there staff (CEO, Execs).
If there is no Job there is no money if there is no money there is no control
If there is no control then you must be free as it should be.

The Goverment is nothing with out the tax payers and
if there are no tax payers there is no Goverment unless they elect and run these services by them selves for them selves.

June 23, 2009 at 1:54:33 AM
Brian in Tdot
I have no sympathy for these unions. They strike at the worst possible time. The public does not support them for the majority. And let me ask the question. What does wrapping the garbage bins with plastic so you can't use them going to do? Nothing. Making Torontonians suffer when at the end of the day it's our tax money paying your salaries you incompetent boneheads.

June 23, 2009 at 2:28:28 AM
Ana M.
I am super pissed about this strike. The garbage issue is what pisses me off the most. I live on the second floor, with the garbage containers only like 10-15 meters away from my windows and the garbage shute is right next to my apartment, damn it!
I was also looking forward to Pride Weekend, and now our city is going to look and smell like a rigging slum (no offence to the poor slum dwellers around the world, my heart goes out to them!)
Now, I pay my taxes, and I expect to get the services. If my pay was anything like those spoiled city workers, I wouldn’t complain, and I would do my job. I was laid off in Oct. 2008, and exhausted my EI benefits by May 2009. Now I'm on Welfare looking for the next survival job I can't make ends meet, I'm not joking! And these people are complaining? Go back to work you spoiled jerks! It is completely unsanitary to leave garbage in the streets, it's summer if you haven't noticed, argh!
And paramedics? You guys must be joking. Some people might have already died ‘cause you weren't working, shame on you!
And the days cares... As if people weren't struggling enough in this recession, now they have to pay for babysitters.
We are in the middle of a recession, and it's tough on everyone, people are being laid of right and left, and you chose to be picky and spoiled? Can I have your job? I mean you obviously don't!
And to the city of Toronto:
I've been a loyal and loving resident for over 15 years, paying my taxes and all, and this is what we get? Shame on you, being dirty and stupid in the middle of tourist season!
This BS better end soon!
ARGHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!

June 23, 2009 at 8:04:41 AM
Angela C
hello , We are not asking for sympathy that we are on strike , what we are asking for all we want is what we fought for in the last contact , what we fought for is now being taken away , to revert back to what it was like on our last contract. The Coucillors, and other staff have taken greater wage increase over the past couple of years , is the reason the City is in a deficeit , and other things that have occured like the MFP computer thing , and much more. We are the lowest man on the totem pole , we only ask for what we already have , we want to sustain, nothing more, nothing less. Using the recession as an excuse is SAD ! it has nothing to do with it , and if it did ? perhaps we wouldn't be in a recession if it were not for greed coming form else where .. We stand United and only ask you see reverently the real story , prices are going up and wages are going down , what is wrong with that picture ? thank you for taking the time to see another perspective . Single mother that works very hard and supports herself and teenager.

June 23, 2009 at 8:17:31 AM
Ady
Media is saying that union members can cash out their sick bank. What they aren't saying is that the city is saving money this way. Many staff members are saving 300 to 400 sick days...that is a year's worth, but they can only cash out 6 months worth at retirement. If a staff member is not using those days, then the city is getting a lot of work out of them during their career. It is just a reward for long service. If the city takes this away, then staff will not feel like they have any incentive to NOT use those days. Therefore the city will have a lot of lost time as people make use of the days that are rightfully theirs. Also consider the deals that the city has made with the other city unions. Their banked sick time was not taken away. And they were given 3%, 3% and 3%. Right now the city wants at least a 2 week strike before staff are legislated back. Because they know if it goes to arbitration then the arbitrator will side with the workers, as the city gave good deals to the other city unions. The Mayor hope that with 2 to 3 weeks with staff off work, he can recoup the money he will be arbitrator to pay employees.

June 23, 2009 at 8:38:40 AM
Shannon
I am a city worker of Local 79.... and I think people need to get it straight we had no say in this strike, most of the city workers that I worked with did not want this strike... Why would we want to be out of work so we can't get paid... that doesn't make sense to me.

June 23, 2009 at 8:40:43 AM
Gonzalo
Mayor Mel if you cave into these goons,this shall be the last time you run as our Mayor.no one can rely on you.as you fall for the unions

Do as your sister did in the uk,abolish these unions,and let the workers see what it is like,to actually go and work for a living,as someone al;l ready commented on,these guys,and ladies do not put in a full day's work and are paid for a whole shift,also who in the hell do they think they are,maybe a bunch of over paid retarts,isn't it enough that when they retire,they all get wonderful packages,but on top of that these greedy morons want a extra 50 thousand,for their sick day's. I have a few good friends that work for the parks,on any given day,they are going about doing activities,that are not work related,and getting p aid. some go get their liscences renewed,some go shopping,and some have their cars repaired.fire them all and let them reapply.also more then have the outside workers all have criminal records miller stand your ground and oust them all.

June 23, 2009 at 8:50:24 AM
RAD, Toronto
Everyone sounds hot-headed, saying things like fire everyone, give the job to someone who will appreciate it. Well, I would just say that city workers do appreciate their jobs, and do a good job at them, it is only fair that city workers stand up for their rights, and to try to hold onto what has been in their contracts for years. We can't blame everything on the recession. Police and firefighters got their contracts without fighting for anything.

June 23, 2009 at 9:11:39 AM
Patrizia Asaro
They make me sick

June 23, 2009 at 9:25:36 AM
Kassy Toronto, daughter of T.O Paramedic 30 yrs
SHAME ON YOU CP24!!! Essential services like police and fire are still running?? OF COURSE THEY ARE THEY ARE ON A DIFFERENT UNION!! what you should be saying is PARAMEDICS who are taking a 30% pay cut and for every 4 days on they are only getting paid for 3 ARE STILL RUNNING although they the people arent considered an essential service just the ambulance "truck" is, how sad. This strike isnt only about the "poor poor" garbage worked BOOO HOO.. the people who deserve benefits and sick banks are the paramedics who deal with everyones worst nightmare on a daily basis. TRY HIRING THE AVERAGE JOE OFF THE STREET FOR THAT JOB!!! btw PEOPLE of toronto realize that most of these ppl you hold hatred towards dont even want to be on strike they are forced by the union. FIGURE IT OUT!

June 23, 2009 at 9:25:37 AM
Craig Quattro
18 sick days a year that are bankable?

What planet are these greedy people living on?

People are losing their jobs en masse, being forced to take pay cuts and these lazy pigs at the trough are worried because they might lose their bankable 18 sick days!!! I haven't called in sick for 18 days in my ENTIRE career!

Unions are truly nothing but a scourge.

June 23, 2009 at 9:28:55 AM
Glauco Ramos
It's sad to see strike like this in the city of Toronto. I don`t have any sympathy for public sector workers now. They already make good money, they have one of the best employment insurance in the city. I work 45 hr a week and I don`t even make half of what they make. On crisis like this they should had thought 10 times before going on strike, now the public will have no sympathy for them. I`m paying $50 per day to leave my kids with someone so that I can go to work.

June 23, 2009 at 9:36:41 AM
Kelly
Since all Torontonians now pay for garbage pick up as part of our new "utility bill", is the city going to be refunding or crediting our accounts for the missed service? If not I think that it is time for all people in Toronto to unite and send a strong message to our city. Enough is enough. It is time to get rid of Mayor Miller and all his croonies, who have allowed Toronto to continue to decline.

June 23, 2009 at 9:37:16 AM
no more UNIONS - this is not 1900s
Fire them all!!! let them join GM workers. and give private company the contract for garbage removal just like in Etobicoke.

Let them feel how it is to work for $12.00 per hour without any benefits or sick days

plus WE HAVE NO NEED FOR UNIONS IN PRESENT TIME - THIS IS 2009 PEOPLE!!!!!!

June 23, 2009 at 9:37:30 AM
Reed69
Honestly speaking ppl really need to get their facts straight before they pass judgement. We are NOT fighting for a pay increase at all we are fighting to keep our sick banks and seniority. The City granted these days and now want to take them away how is that fair? The Union members are not holding the City hostage like ppl are saying it's the City holding all of us hostage like they have always done. The City does not care about garbage formenting in our public parks, daycare centre closures, water parks and public pools or Social Services building closures to our needy. Instead the message they send is that we are greedy and should not be supported. Believe me or not management/politicians salary as well as their benefits need to be made public and if that happens trust me you will forget about us little guys very quickly. It's shameful they tell the media we are bleeding the City dry when they know it's themselves that do that. We earn far less than they do and do not have lifetime benefits like they do but I'm sure the ppl of the City are not aware of that. This strike is to send a message to the City that we are tired of losing things we fought for previously for their personal gain. If the ppl of Toronto do not support us that is your right but please do not attack us by questionning our educational backgrounds or throwing debris at us while we are on the picket lines. Perhaps CP24 should interview union members to find out the real story instead of having Independent Small Business President/CEO's like Catherine slamming us. Poor taste in my opinion...she's simply adding fuel to the flame.

June 23, 2009 at 9:40:45 AM
Toanism
Torontonians, if you happen to walk by a picket line. Throw your trash onto their feet. Im not saying throwning it at the strikers, but just toss your cans, bag, etc. at their picket lines. It'll make up for lost time, since they're not doing anything right now.

June 23, 2009 at 9:46:25 AM
Michael
Hmmm, city councillors gave themselves a raise not too long ago. I do not agree with the unions, as they should be happy to have a job right now period. It does seem odd though that the Mayor and councillors get a raise but no one else should?
I want my money back from the rediculous garbage bins! This city toutes how we should recycle, be green etc... I wonder how much recylcing is going to end up in the city dumps now.
Another Ironic situation.. I saw a garbage bin this morning with a city advertisement to reduce our consumtion of plastic water bottles, as we have too much plastic going to our dumps...guess how they sealed the garbage bins... by encasing them in plastic wrap! Way to go... I want Hazel M. running this city.

June 23, 2009 at 9:49:13 AM
Anita
There are THOUSANDS of peoples that can fill in RIGHT NOW. Fired all and replace them with people who need job right now. FIRED MILLER AND ALL OF HIS CRONIES AT THE SAME TIME.

June 23, 2009 at 9:58:40 AM
Mike
I'm sure all those people waiting in line at the IE office or watching the weeks go by until their savings and benefits dwindle into nothing would take there jobs in a heartbeat (and at a reduce in pay and benefits). Its time the city woke up and smelled the coffee because we a going to be smelling something really soon. Maybe all that money they spent on the studies on what to do with coffee cups and lids should be spent on a study if a private Garbage collection company is cheaper then these overpayed garbage collectors. I for one am tired of all these srikes from the city to auto workers especially in tough economic times. The city should be able to hire whoever they want and screw the Union as far as I'm concerned and I'm sure there are many more who feel this way are "Terrorists" holding the city hostage until we pay a ransom. We should be taking our trash and dropping it off on the Union leaders and the Unions members lawn not City Hall. I don't usually agree or like David Miller, but this time I hope he does the right thing and stands his ground, as I cannot stand another hike in my taxes to pay Unionized workers and neither can the poor businesses. Whats going to happen if we give in this time? There just going to want more. When is enough enough I ask?

June 23, 2009 at 9:59:10 AM
Dennis
Talk about the past repeating itslf.Seems Toronto never learns.They go through this hostage standoff evey couple years. The unions strike every time during the summer,the peak of tourism season,the worst time for rotting garbage causing health problems.Anger following families scrambling to find babysitters,or having to leave their children home alone before they are of proper age.For these reasons alone,the government should deam these union jobs a nessesity.To top things off,even when the strikers do illegal stunts they still don't get charged.I can't say the word union without spitting.

June 23, 2009 at 10:07:27 AM
Mike L
Unions are a disgusting mafia and should be dropped.
Taxpayers pay for a service and we should never be threaten by strike. union workers are already over paid and greedy.

david miller who is also an over paid mayor should make it mandatory no strike claus on city workers. especially when its taxpayers money. God forbid we dont pay our taxes we go to jail, but stealing our hard earn money like this is ok..... strange.

June 23, 2009 at 10:21:58 AM
Sam
The strikers have their rights to strike. It is their choice. Meanwhile, they have absolutely no rights to stop others from dropping off garbage or whatever the public choose to do. Who do they think they are? This is a free country.

June 23, 2009 at 10:33:45 AM
Jeff
Toronto, would you please raise your taxes and stop dominating the news with this B.S. Your history suggests you won't cut services, so you have one option.

I really don't understand what the problems are.

Regardless, of what side you're on, your position is about money. Regretfully, people have forgotten that benefits (what ever those benefits may be) have to be paid for in money (though perhaps in the future you may barter with chickens or eggs).

Toronto, you either have a spending problem or you have a income problem. You have three solutions.

1. Increase the money coming into the city purse; or
2. Decrease the money going out of the city purse; or
3. Kick the problem into the future for your kids to deal with by borrowing more money (this really is a really good idea and I hear California fully endorses).

With respect to Toronto taxes go to: http://www.thestar.com/taxcalc (only does 2008)

$400,000 house - in Toronto taxes would be $2,443.70, but for 2008 in Brampton would be $3,925.06, in Aurora $3,563.61, in Caledon $2,812.67, in Markham $3,143.88, in Richmond Hill $3,168.65.

Yeah, you people in the City of Toronto are really soaked when it comes to property taxes.

Here's a link to the City of Toronto services. http://www.toronto.ca/services/alpha_dir.htm

According to this web-site: http://wx.toronto.ca/inter/fin/tax.nsf/tax?openform property tax on $400,000.00 would be: $3,419.12

June 23, 2009 at 10:34:48 AM
wayne
what are the people who live in toronto on disability have no car etc supposed to do with trash now ...i obviously cant get to a transfer station and live in a very small apartment i have no vehicle and am limmited in funds .... if this lasts im gonna put it by the curb i dont have storage for it and i cant pay a fine or anything like that ...im not alone out here ... garbage should be essential for just this reason

June 23, 2009 at 10:51:03 AM
RAY
I FEEL SORRY FOR THE RESIDENT WHO HAVE TO CART THEIR TRASH TO THE DUMP IF YOU WANT TO CALL THAT
BUT BEEING A RESIDENT OF ETOBICOKE WE ARE NOT AFFECTED BY THIS STRIKE

OK YOU CITY GUYS JUST GET BACK TO WORK THE CITY IS TAXING US ENOUGH AND WITH ALL THE PEOPLE WHO ARE OUT OF WORK FIRE THEM ALL AND
HIRE SOMEBODY WHO WANTS TO WORK THE SAME GOES FOR THE LCBO

June 23, 2009 at 11:14:49 AM
SPARTIATIS
How can we allow 24,000 city workers, take hostage a city of 2.5 million people.

The people should speak and, we will not tolerate this. Fire the whole lot and replace them the very next day.

We are in tough times, why should we be handing out more to these lazy bums when so many are losing their jobs and have it MUCH WORSE than they do.

Send them home, and give them a dose of reality.

Our options are either make these strikes illegal, or fire them and privatize the waste collection.

June 23, 2009 at 11:34:40 AM
Reed69
I have to say I am very shocked and hurt at the comments made by ppl. Mike and Anita have said "fire them all we'll step in and take their jobs". How is that constructive? When we are at work and you need Social Services, Daycare, Garbage Pick up Parks and Rec everything is great but when we need your support this is what we get...how very sad. In terms of taking our jobs for lower pay you need the required eduation first. If you do not have the education then perhaps you should return to Post Secondary receive your degree and then have an opinion about losing your benefits. We all need to stop pointing the finger at City workers and direct our
anger and frustration at the
source of the problem and that's the City. We all know our politicans are slime balls and are only out for themselves and will continue this vicious cycle until we stand up and say no more. We
are all responsible for electing these individuals into office whether we physically voted or not. This strike is intended to send that message and with the support of the public I think our message will be heard. Negativity from the public to the City workers is exactly what the politicians want so let's not give it to them!!! Remember the City gave us our benefit package more than 20 years ago and I ask how is it fair to take it away and in that process grease your own palms? I have lived in Canada my entire life and love the ppl in this country but reading comments from Toanism 'throw your garbage at picketer's feet' to me is appalling.

June 23, 2009 at 11:37:33 AM
Kate
Unfortunately with the blackout, the public is not aware of everything. My understanding is that they are fighting to keep their banked sick time that was already accumulated in past contracts. This should be honored, but grandfathered so that it will no longer continue. All other unionized city workers like the police, etc., were given this in their agreement just recently so why has it stopped now. I agree that Toronto is broke, but that didn't stop Mr. Miller from renovating his office or giving all the counsellors a nice raise. Why wasn't everyone ticked off then. Also, not all workers want to be on strike and they are being penalized by mainly the garbage workers who will make up the lost pay in overtime after the strike.

June 23, 2009 at 11:56:00 AM
Gonzalo
I bet a lot of you do not relize that these foolish workers are still getting strike pay i beleive 200 dollars even when you add that up its more then alot of people,if that affects you go back to work,

June 23, 2009 at 11:58:27 AM
Gordon
I am on a disability pension. I received $12,000 in income last year. It is impossible for me to be sympathetic to an overpaid group like this. I watch the men pick up my garbage and think what I wouldn't give to have that kind of freedom not to mention the money, retirement benefits and insurance. My disgust for their greed is beyond all comprehension.

June 23, 2009 at 12:26:09 PM
sad to be out on strike but support it
I just love how people who know nothing about the collective agreement issues have such comments to say. Some comments are based on pure ignorance. There is a real injustice being done to the city workers surrounding consistency and it is a real shame the general public doesn't take more time to know what the true issues really are. Yes, I am a city worker out on strike but at least I know more about the issues than some of you being quick to judge.

June 23, 2009 at 12:40:51 PM
Pineapple
Lets drop off our garbage at the picket line.

June 23, 2009 at 12:44:36 PM
Roger Brady
It is high time that all public services be declared essential - or be privatized under strict "constant operation" regulations.

As a taxpayer, I believe I own a portion of the infrastructure that these people operate, and the terms of my payment of taxes is that this operating infrastructure will never be abandoned!

Withdrawal of services (striking) is not acceptable. Binding arbitration must be the last resort. There is no sympathy for "synacure" workers who are withholding services because of sick day benefits. That entitlement is from an age past and should be removed from all public service contracts across the nation. What a "sick" sector!

June 23, 2009 at 12:44:55 PM
lynnette
what is happening to this place its getting worse my son cant even go to daycare because of this craziness.Its time to end this people are suffering. there is no money so get over it. Its pooor people thats suffering

June 23, 2009 at 12:49:34 PM
DJ
I am by no means a unionist,but right now Torontoians have to realize is that Miller has no possible chance for re-election,and will therefore not be overly concerned for the public just as the unions are doing.The mayor will use what time he has left to streghten his ties and patronage to better his fall from grace.I have to admitt though the people of Toronto sure like to vote in Mayors who like to party.Let's see what shape Toronto is in after pride week. Right now I have warned all my family and friends to hold off on coming to visit untill there is word that Toronto is safe.Toronto the Good hahahahahahahahaha

June 23, 2009 at 1:02:05 PM
sad to be on strike but support it.
To correct another quick judgement made on us city workers.

Only those on the picket line are receiving strike pay and....the $200.00 is for 1 week of walking on the picket line.

For those workers that are choosing not to picket are receiving $0.00 dollars.

With approx. 24000 staff on strike, there clearly is not 24000 walking the picket line.

Things aren't as easy as what it seems.

June 23, 2009 at 1:08:02 PM
Fed Up
18 Paid sick days? Job security? HA!! Booo-hooo! Lazy union employees want their cushy jobs with all the perks. Try working outside the union and see what the real world deals with. Try no paid sick days and constant lay-offs like 95% of the rest of us! Sympathy? I've got NONE. Go back to work you lot of lazy bums and enjoy your perks, because the rest of us don't have them. And take out the trash when you get back to work!

June 23, 2009 at 1:08:24 PM
Sue Mills
David Miller needs to leave. He has never had any idea how to run a city like Toronto. The city is already a mess (just take a look at the construction). And now he's allowed these Union morons to hold us hostage. Again. I am appalled at how we continue to allow him to stay in this position. He is incapable of taking care of business. On the one hand, on the other, I do not believe that Unions should be allowed to do this. I don't care what their issues are - when it inconveniences millions, I will not give them one iota of sympathy. I don't care what Union it is. Morons. There are people out there who have lost their jobs. Perhaps these people should too!!!!

June 23, 2009 at 1:14:44 PM
Gonzalo
How can anyone even class the [police and paramedics with a bunch of garbage pickers that's all they do!

People nothing last for ever get off you high horses,and except the fact that you are not going to all ways get want you want! .


Try working for your money like the rest of the WORKING CLASS) not the high paid ASS-HOLES!

Miller should FIRE YOU ALL!

when this is said and done you can make back your money through overtime,which the working class will be paying.

you all need too see and feel what its like to put in a good honest day's work

June 23, 2009 at 1:18:33 PM
thedeuche73
GO BACK TO WORK!...be grateful you have a job!

June 23, 2009 at 1:29:22 PM
Larry
The city is in financial distress, these finances are dependent on homeowners. Many do not have the ability to accomadate all these increases. In the past politicians have caved in to demands by unions and workers earn more than their job descriptions warrent. If they feel their wage is not sufficient work elsewhere. Privite companies most welcome.

June 23, 2009 at 1:35:19 PM
Amanda
It seems to me this is the perfect time for Torontonians to start reducing the amount of garbage they produce. The less garbage we all create, the less taxes we will pay, and the less we will be subjected to striking workers. And it's great for the environment to boot!

June 23, 2009 at 1:44:54 PM
Dennis
Privatize these morons and the LCBO. These complete idiots are greedy and selfish beyond reasonable. David Miller couldn't manage a one man golf game. Holding the public taxpayers at ransom is despicable. Our society as a whole is becoming me,me,me. Very sad.

June 23, 2009 at 1:46:41 PM
Joseph Madden
I am a union member. I do not wish to strike for any reason other than dignity. Not money.
You may find that hard to believe. But if the city of Toronto does want to claw back promises made to the union over a decade a go than they should strike. However, both sides have to bargain FURIOUSLY over the next few days(not weeks)and bring the city back on its feet. Put pride away and use what you learned in kindergarten. Cooperation, and compromise. that's how most families get along.

June 23, 2009 at 1:52:11 PM
michelle
Over the past two years my husband and I have both suffered pay cuts, lost all our sick days and some of our vacation time to keep the private sector companies we work for from going under. We are grateful we have kept our jobs through these tough times and the City Workers should be grateful for what they have too. Like someone else here posted, if you your not happy - quit and give the position to someone who will appreciate it - Signed sincerely, The People who can't afford to pay your salaries anymore.

June 23, 2009 at 2:10:15 PM
Carrie
So - Toronto is supposed to be this amazing city.....we have a H1N1 pandemic, and Garbage pick up is not considered an essential service? Maybe "we" should think about that one for a moment or two.
We are in the midst of a frightening recession - with many who would be grateful for a job, period. Shame on you Union leaders of CUPE 416 and 79! Maybe you should go speak with those who used to be employed and pay dues to the union at "insert car maker here". Betcha they'd be happy to take part time employment!

Shame on YOU MR. MAYOR for letting it get this far. For neglecting your city as a tourist destination of choice, for disrespecting such a beautiful city AND THE RESIDENTS THAT ELECTED YOU. Spending money and time and shrink wrap (plastic going to landfill) on city garbage bins? Childish AND dumb.

June 23, 2009 at 2:14:27 PM
tom kanabe
by not attending negotiations David Miller has once again proven hes not a mayor, but a union leader!! Way to go David, hope you don't plan to run again and ruin this city more than you have

June 23, 2009 at 2:20:55 PM
Linda
I am seeing garbage all over the streets, and I can't help but wonder why people are not storing their garbage on their own properties. The strike is only on its second day!
Let's please remember that throwing garbage in the street instead of storing it securely and safely on our own properties (In know we all have a few garbage bins we are no longer using thanks to the mandatory city bins we were forced to buy!) is a public health hazard. Not to mention the vermin that thrive on this kind of thing!

June 23, 2009 at 2:35:26 PM
Geoff
I've heard the union rhetoric and it's a load of b.s. The City is holding us hostage? Really?

Seems to me it isn't the City preventing me from disposing of my garbage at any of the transfer stations that extended their hours.

Seems to me it isn't the City fighting to preserve a disgustingly rich benefits package that is better than anything available in the private sector.

Seems to me the City aren't the people who shut down services every time a contract ends.

I hope Miller stands his ground.

June 23, 2009 at 2:43:33 PM
mm
Hi, I would like to send this to, "Craig Quattro," who said, quote: "these lazy pigs at the trough are worried because they might lose their bankable 18 sick days!!! I haven't called in sick for 18 days in my ENTIRE career!
Unions are truly nothing but a scourge."

Mr. Quattro, DO NOT PAINT EVERYONE WITH THE SAME BRUSH! I have been a loyal and hard working City worker for over 27 years. I do not abuse my sick time, and I thank God every day that I still do have a job. However, after 27 years of dedicated service, the "City" decided to delete my job position last fall. I have several health issues, but I still proceed to go to work each day, and do the job that has now been assigned to me to the best of my ability, by providing customer service to City tax-payers. (Please don't forget that I also pay taxes and I also was raised and still live in the City of Toronto). The sick time incentive, is only a six-month payout. You can have hundreds of sick days accumulated, but that does not mean that you will get paid out for those, ONLY SIX MONTHS WORTH!
Please think twice before you call EVERYONE, "lazy pigs," and whatever else you wish to call us. Oh yeah, and if you should by any chance be diagnosed with colon cancer and then liver cancer within a very short time frame, please let me know. Because, this lazy worker is presently working and looking after a family member in this situation.

June 23, 2009 at 2:44:49 PM
AB
The city should fire all the garbage collectors and hire private companies to collect the trash.

What I cannot understand is why all the contracts happen to expire during the summer. Let any new contracts expire during the winter so the trash won't stink.

June 23, 2009 at 2:45:33 PM
David
Enough with the negotiations that are going nowhere. David Miller has two options and negotiations help mediators talk and talk and get nowhere. David Miller has 2 options: give the union what they want and just raise taxes or go into further defeceit or 2 stand up to the union and tell them in 2009 the age of banking sick days are over. Aren't sick days meant when you are truly sick and not paid vacation days ? Mr Miller show some leadership and enough with the bike lanes- why does Mr Miller represent the views of a small minority of NDP supporters who hate cars, love taxes and unions

June 23, 2009 at 2:46:02 PM
Gonzalo
Mayor Miller you are a joke this year while you are on the float wear your pants on your head and show your true face to toronto (ass) you are a coward when it comes to unions get rid of them it is 2009 not the 1900 hundreds with you and the unions you you are driving the average hard working canadian poor

June 23, 2009 at 2:46:02 PM
Melanie Wrigley
It is sad that in our great city that people don't take more pride in it. Yes the garbage guys are on strike but it is not license for everyone to throw out there own garbage on to the streets and make things worse.
The workers that are on stike should also not be lumped into one group. Daycare workers for instance don't get long breaks and are not paid the same as say a garbage/recycling driver.
Simple solution, if you don't like your job/benefits/work environment find a new job. Keep in mind strikers there are a lot of people out there that would love to have your job or any job for that matter.

June 23, 2009 at 2:48:07 PM
public being unfair
I find the comments and polls are very unfair. its not the city workers that want to be on strike its the unions that are causing this battle. they are the ones calling the shots not the city workers. US city workers are not being paid and we have family's to take care of and many other finances that are not being paid. I think people should look at the large picture here and realize its not the workers its the unions and the city. I my self have spoken to many employees and non have wanted this strike.
blame the city and the unions not the workers.

June 23, 2009 at 2:52:35 PM
randy
As a former member of 416 I have not a shred of sympathy for the workers' concerns. The city's tax payers cannot be held ransom like this. Much like the wildcard TTC strike last summer, 416 (trash collectors, daycare providers, etc) must be deemed an essential service. Why, it does not take a doctorate to understand the grave health concerns to have fetid and sweating bags of garbage in our back yards, garages and our tax supported green spaces. THE CITY IS OURS AND ALL OF THE SERVICES THAT WE PAY FOR ARE FOR OUR ENJOYMENT AND SUPPORT. I guess on the up side, if the LCBO goes on strike too the 416 Union members will save a large portion of their strike pay.

June 23, 2009 at 3:21:58 PM
Kevin in Taxoronto
Contract out all services. Including the Mayor! Less than 1% of the public gets sick day perks that they can bank! If it was a private company, they wouldn't be in business for long, but I'm tired of politicians and gov't employees picking my pocket and giving me less and less in return. It would be poetic justice if dog owners took their collected dog poop and deposited it at the CUPE office.

June 23, 2009 at 3:27:04 PM
robert bartlett
I work in a government funded hospital with no right to strike and was offered a 2% per yr. wage increase for 3 yrs. The employer wanted to claw back our benefits as well. We were told take it or leave it and let an arbitrator decide as the govt. pleads econoic hardship. We sucked it up and accepted rather than risk getting less I say back to work and wait till the economy rebounds and then negotiate for more.

June 23, 2009 at 3:41:51 PM
Ben
Its funny that these strikes are taking place during the main event that brings revenue into toronto. Pride. maybe there is a case there to for descrimination. plus i would be so stoked to have the kind of benefits these guys are getting. they are just plain greedy.

June 23, 2009 at 3:50:03 PM
sad to be on strike but support it.
For the life of me, I can not believe why the general public can't understand why these two unions choose to go on strike now as opposed to winter.

Let me spell it out for you quick to judge people.

What better time to pressure the city to talk negotiations than the summer time when the public is put out the most. In the winter time, the city would not be in a rush to work on a settlement and would love to save loads of money from lost wages overall especially when it comes to financing their own increases.

By the way, not only am I a city worker but I am also a resident and this isn't easy on us either.

June 23, 2009 at 3:57:16 PM
Ira Schweitzer
Cannot believe the unjions on this one. Let them hjave a look at what it hasw cost the auto workers, and then us the tax payers to bail out. Enough is enough. My workers have been offered no increase or at most for some of the staqff a Cost of Living. This is not the time to ask for one more cent from the rate payers. We just don't have it. LOook at the reality. The unions which were estabished to protect workers also need to keep in mind we are all workers. We are not asking for people to work in sweet shops. Just to be real in a timie of crisis and underemployment. They don't wont to work, replace them with those who would welcome a steady income and job. Who is gooing to top up my pension which has lost thousands in the current rercession. No one. Time to realize that the fat cow has died.

June 23, 2009 at 3:58:44 PM
Sam Bennett
These garbage workers are insane. As a citizen, I don't care if they stay on strike. There jobs were just made so easier with the introduction of the new garbage, recycling and green bins. Now they don't even have to pick up the extra garbage if it is out there. Play hardball with these guys and gals ... send a message to other unions that we are not willing to give into their greedy and lazy lifestyles.

June 23, 2009 at 4:18:03 PM
Fed up with talk, although I tend to talk alot
David Miller takes a stand stating it is unacceptable to throw garbage in parks (which is true) but Mr Miller it is utterly unacceptable for a mayor to lose control of his city. The hottest week of the year and the greatest city in the world does not have garbage service or city services for the hardworking citizens of Toronto. I have friends coming from New York and I am embarassed to show them our city- in two weeks it will definately smell and I am thinking of calling the WHO to look into the health of Torontonians. Shame on the leader of Toronto for allowing this to happen

June 23, 2009 at 4:30:00 PM
Steven
garbage brings rats and other diseases carring rodents. is this going to effect the N1H1?

I thing we all should be worried about the N1H1 mutating and causing it to mutate, and start killing even more people.

June 23, 2009 at 4:41:36 PM
AB
There is no sympathy from anyone and no one supports your cause. You are not entitled to the same agreement as other services in the past. Don't expect it.

Toronto can't afford to offer your STUPID benefits. If you don't like claw backs or what is offered, feel free to find another job. I will gladly take your job without such silly benefits.

The province should legislate unions as illegal organizations.

June 23, 2009 at 4:57:49 PM
ckozak
People tend to forget that it was unions that took the word slave out of slave labour.

June 23, 2009 at 5:13:43 PM
taxpayer
For the person who stated " FIRE THE CITY WORKERS AND HIRE OTHERS WHO WANT TO WORK" Of course us CITY WORKERS want to work we have mortgages, pay taxes, have a family to support but we are presenting losing pay in order to preserve our benefits. Remember we are tax payers also and with many people being unemployed right now we are the ones contributing tax dollars to the other social service programs. Have respect!

June 23, 2009 at 5:18:29 PM
Rod Dynes
If money and sick pay are what's at issue why not bring the police and fire back and re-negotiate their contract too???

June 23, 2009 at 5:19:41 PM
maria
These city workers are greedy!People are lucky to have a job during these difficult times.What more benefits do they want.

June 23, 2009 at 5:42:36 PM
andy
So let me get this straight: they're allowed to *illegally* block me from entering a CITY designated dump site, and I'm the one that will get fined if I leave my garbage right in front of them?
Can a lawyer please clarify what are our rights here ?

June 23, 2009 at 6:05:51 PM
Sarah
Unionized employees don’t have a STD plan. Their sick days are it. So if they are off sick for surgery or a serious illness, that’s all they have to fall back on. If they don’t have these days earned and banked, they get no pay and will have to go on EI as LTD doesn’t kick in until 6 months. Many people may argue that this is what they encounter in the private sector and I don’t disagree but this IS a public service and you cannot compare apples to oranges.

The City wants to take away the 18 bankable sick days per year but instead (I’m guessing) offer a STD plan similar to the ones the non-union staff got in 2008. Instead of 18 bankable days per year, it’ll be 130 sick days in a replenishable bank every year (with 10+ years of service the bank will be paid out at 100%.

June 23, 2009 at 6:07:43 PM
Sarah
If Torontonians are so upset about union wages, they should ask what the non-union wages are like. They get the exact same increase per year that the union employees get PLUS up to a 3% performance pay increase. So if the cost of living is 3%, non-union employees usually get 6%. Instead of focusing so much of their energy on the wages of the unionized staff perhaps they need to see to where all the City’s funds are really going. Additionally, think of the overtime the non-union staff are racking up during this strike. They’ll be quick to state that they have to bank the overtime instead of have it paid, except that with the 2002 strike, once it was over, all the banked overtime was approved for payout. Trust me when I say that I’d much prefer to have a non-union job at the City than a union one since that’s where all the perks are.

June 23, 2009 at 6:24:59 PM
Dave
People are losing their jobs left and right and these people are going on strike?I say let them go on strike and people in private sector getting laid off will take over.

June 23, 2009 at 6:47:43 PM
Riju
It is unacceptable that the union has decided to go on stike during such recessionary times. Their demands are totally uncalled for at such times. There are thousands without a job who will gladly accept the job offer at even lower demands. Also the city due to the problems that the citizens are facing should at the very least offer a partial refund to all affected by the stike. They are increasing the taxes in every possible way and decreasing the benefits and to top it they were unable to manage the situation with the strike. CITY AT THE VERY LEAST MUST OFFER TAX REFUNDS TO THE CITIZENS.

June 23, 2009 at 7:06:02 PM
Stefan - Totronto
The whole idea of having sick days benefits is weird. This sounds like a bad joke to me - accumulate sick days from year to year??? In other words - I as a tax payer am supposed to pay you for "sick days", while you are in perfect health condition? Wake up, people, it is 21th century already!

June 23, 2009 at 7:17:06 PM
NoNarcsWanted
Miller actually wants citizens to report each other over illegally dumping? I have one thing to say to you Dave. Not likely. And enjoy your time while it lasts. You are on your way out.

June 23, 2009 at 7:21:26 PM
William Raymond
Let's see...Miller is encouraging citizens to snitch on other citizens for dumping garbage. What else will he encourage citizens to snitch on each other for? Kinda reminds me of another famous socialist in the 30's

June 23, 2009 at 7:22:07 PM
AMC
what you guy get paid for walking the damn picket line. I am at the point of throwing my sanitary napkins at your workers because I am so fed up right now.

June 23, 2009 at 7:37:58 PM
sam
i can't believe really the comments about unions and such...no one is listening to the people making comments about the real reason they are striking, no one is listenin to the comments someone made about politicians getting a raise and no one else is allowed to. most of you are not even aware of what is in their collective bargainin agreement but you are passing all kind of judgements..how can the city get a raise, then take away something they promised to others???.do you folks not realise how much these politicians are getting paid and that does not even include "perks" have you taken a look at rob fords reports on what these people spend OUR money on and zero from their personal expenses.. tell me why they get paid (accordin to a report in 2006) toronto city councillors were making $87,200...

June 23, 2009 at 7:43:09 PM
Mariya
City workers' actions are absolutely regrettable and their behavior is utterly selfish. Everybody is talking about the problems garbage creates. What about our kids and us, their parents, who cannot go to work and have to go through the nightmare of "arranging an alternative care"? How can they ask for 18 sick and, beyond everything, cashable days. This is outrageous! Why should their work be considered more important than ours?
They should be forced to go back to work! They should choose the right time to present their demands. The time of economic crisis is NOT the right time.

June 23, 2009 at 7:55:31 PM
Beata from Toronto
ok...so here is the deal... I'm married a member of Local 79... for the record...they just wanna go back to work.... here is a little FYI the mayor did not tell you... the city only has 4 supervisors to write the tickets for illegal dumping... you do the math on the chances of getting caught... and even if you do get caught what are the chances that the ticket is written correctly, they have sufficient evidence and are available to show up in court for your trial.... you make the choice.... oh while at it...why not follow up to see how many counselors have paid the fines they were given for illegal signs during elections....that's a lot of outstanding revenue for the city...

June 23, 2009 at 8:03:27 PM
Q
Striking is an option, creating garbage Is NOT. To fine people for dumping garbage, when we've already paid for that service is a crime!
It's like being charged for parking on your own driveway.
If the Govt wants to help Torontoians, they should ignore the illegal dumping. It would be payback when the strikers go back to work!

June 23, 2009 at 8:09:22 PM
AMC
18 sick days. WOW! I get 4 working for the private sector. How difficult is it to get rid of Unions?

June 23, 2009 at 8:36:51 PM
Rodney
The Mayor has bigger worries than illegal dumping such as ending this strike and re-election next year

June 23, 2009 at 8:38:33 PM
eatmetrashmonkeys
Let's go on strike while the economy tanks. Contract the work out to people/companies that will do the job without striking. It's an essential service. Out them. Then watch them try to form a union making $9/hr in a stinky warehouse.

June 23, 2009 at 8:41:22 PM
Rick, Toronto
I have to thank this recession. It has finally awoken us. It has finally exposed the greed around us. The CEO's and their like have been exposed and now we are finally aware of who else is robbing us, the Unions. There is something wrong when TTC, auto, LCBO and garbarge worker make more than most people. I would easily like to have doctors or nurses being overpaid, then these ungrateful clowns. I still have not seen a thank you letter in the newspapers from the CAW for my tax dollars that saved their jobs. Why dosn't the media expose how much the garbage workers make per hour and how much their other benefits cost. I bet you were amazed how much the auto workers made. Its not only that they are getting a huge premium per hour, I bet you they don't work the fully 8 hours a day that I probably pay them.

June 23, 2009 at 8:55:15 PM
Dave Miller
Mr. Miller will you publicly speak out on the thuggery of CUPE workers at Transfer stations?

Why do you blame Torontonians who are being good citizens and taking their trash to the transfer stations?

You can't have it both ways, either get tough with these thugs as well and go back to city hall and do your job.

just because you don't want to cross the picket lines, it doesn't mean that you and council gets a holiday.

Your act is very thin and weak, we know you support unions above taxpayers and we will vote you out.

June 23, 2009 at 8:59:04 PM
richard
Why is the Mayor, a union friend, making such huge and public effort to fine joe public, when the people who should be fined and controlled run lose. Should he be doing his most to stop the unions from preventing the public from disposing the garbage at the tranfer stations. Should he not have set up and opened the contingency garbage drop off points as soon as the strike was on. Why did he waste the money sealing and taping the public garbage bins. What stupid logic was behind that?

June 23, 2009 at 9:09:53 PM
jen
why does the city not tell the people of the city that they are paying the supervisors to stay at the sites, and paying them for 24 hrs a day 7 days a week intil the strike is over. the supervisors make a lot more then the workers, plus the city bought beds for the supers,& their getting catered meals on the taxes payers dollour. It would cost less to sign the deal. and get it over with.

June 23, 2009 at 9:15:56 PM
J-bud
The best is yet to come!
We all knew this was going to happen. The union, in good faith, cannot ask for more money, given the current economic status, but can make up some B.S. about sick days. This is understandable considering OUR leaders are feeding from the trough more than ever (see expense accounts). The city has been in downfall since Barbra Hall was pushed out. Just walk down the street and try not to step on all the waste, even on Miller's "green" up day. But don't worry yet, the police have their collective agreement expiring soon.....Let the fun begin.

June 23, 2009 at 9:43:24 PM
David
People attacke the unions for striking...

Unions are only trying to get the same percentage as everyone else for cost of living and fighting to keep what they have.

If you all want to attack someone, go after the politicians who gave themselves a 30% increase in payrate.

We all know that whatever the city saves will go to the politicians anyway so technically, the city still doesn't save.

June 23, 2009 at 9:50:12 PM
KJ
The City is doing something stupid. They say please don't litter, and yet they seal up all of the garbage cans. While I don't like the knuckle draggers who are illegally dumping stuff in parks, you can't put all the blame on the striking workers. Torontonians need to take a look at themselves and how much they consume and how much waste they generate in their household. Today we are griping about a strike. Tomorrow, the city could charge us tons of money just to take our garbage and recycling. We'll be screwed no matter what happens.

June 23, 2009 at 10:16:08 PM
TODD
If it wasnt for UNIONS there would be no job protection, and well paying jobs!! We would all be working for minimum wage!!! These workers work extremly hard and deserve every dollar they EARN!! I ask you 1 question... Do you enjoy your weekends?? If it wernt for UNIONS you would be working 7 days a week!! All the city council/mayor got a raise, fire and police, How broke are they?? How about looking at the city concil the mayor and cry about them insted of trying to make unions look bad.

June 23, 2009 at 10:18:29 PM
Sunny
New immigrants can't find job. They have jobs and ask more. During this tough time, they are so greedy.

June 24, 2009 at 10:22:59 PM
patrick
I was hired by the City of Scarborough 20yrs ago. When they offered me a career,the sick plan was part of the reason I accepted. Now the City and the public just want to steal it off me. How would you like to make a successful investment with a bank, and then when it came time to cash in the bank suddenly said forget it. Would you just sit there? It's not greed...it's what I signed up for.
I feel robbed by all of you.

June 24, 2009 at 11:10:41 PM
trolly
to the CITY:
DO NOT GIVE IN, THIS TIME!!

i will store my own garbage even if it takes 6 weeks or more.. enuf is enuf!!

union has a right to protest, but not block or stop people from using city owned assets ie. dump stns.

it is a good thing you -CUPE- are on strike - we the taxpayers do not have to pay ure salaries for this time - STRIKE ON CUPE !!!

June 24, 2009 at 11:19:57 PM
andrea
and now if WE as residents do illegal dumping WE will get charged???? this issue is out of hand why should residents be charged for illegal dumping? It is not our fault that the city went on strike. Will the residents get an adjustment on their taxes next year for workers being on strike? i mean we are paying for a service and now not receiving it i say a REIMBURSEMENT is in order for a job not being done!!!

June 24, 2009 at 11:42:59 PM
dave
What a joke!! I have just watched a news clip showing city managers picking up garbage in front of the strikers at a tranfer station. The "smart" city workers then began to taunt the managers. Are you kidding me!!!!! Get back to work and stop holding the city hostage. The only ones who actually do something important are the paramedics. I would support them hands down.

June 24, 2009 at 11:50:40 PM
Sar
Miller is in no hurry to enact back-to-work legislation, and quick to encourage Torontonians to rat out their neighbours for illegal dumping. It's all about money for our lovely mayor - think how much the city is saving not paying the outside workers salaries for a few weeks? It would seem Miller thinks a little extra room in the budget is worth the inconvenience to taxpayers.

June 24, 2009 at 11:57:09 PM
Jason
Union members were LUCKY to get any benefits at all. I was a union member and was WAY overpaid; I was 17 years old and earned $20/hour, more than I make now at a corporation. Do you think it's fair that our taxes pay the union salaries, that we have to shell out our hard-earned, NON-union dollars for the lazy fools who think that their time and labour is worth more than anyone else's? I say they should get back to work or hit the bricks, because there are thousands of people without jobs who would do the work for half the pay, no questions asked. Unions only create trouble for us, and its high time we fight back and show we are not going to be bullied. Down with the picket lines, unions and ungrateful employees!

June 24, 2009 at 12:31:15 AM
Don
Mr. Miller, I sincerely hope you lose next year's election over this.

I say this as a person who voted for you twice.