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February 08, 2010 at 10:04:39 AM
Disgruntled Citizen
Work to rule huh? Well good, that would actually be an improvement in service.

February 08, 2010 at 10:12:19 AM
Paul
Are you serious? Harassment from passengers who are only documenting their poor behavior? I take the TTC everyday, and the attitude taken by this sleeping collector is the same most TTC employees have. Let's keep taking photo's and video and posting it online for all to see, including TTC management.

February 08, 2010 at 10:23:43 AM
Gilles
You Know, if people are just going to fuel the fire here, Bad TTC employee conduct witll just become the norm, and eventually will never re-enter into the spotlight. Almost like government, ya they screw everyone over and at times makes unethetical decisions, but hey! the dependancy still remains.

February 08, 2010 at 10:24:07 AM
Bryan
Get rid of the union. Fire them all and have them rehired for $15/hr.

Do these drivers realize how good them have it working for the TTC.

February 08, 2010 at 10:27:06 AM
AT
Passengers have been harassing TTC employees for years. TTC employees are shot, stabbed, beat up, spit on and yelled at for no good reason. It's no wonder they don't have a good attitude towards the public when they have to worry about every person that rides the system. The residents of toronto should take a look in the mirror to see who the real problem is.

February 08, 2010 at 10:32:12 AM
Kevin in Taxoronto
If the TTC employees want a fight on their hands through work to rule, so be it. I also suggest that they not be permitted any overtime if they want work to rule!

February 08, 2010 at 10:33:41 AM
Bobby Steeles
Tell those lazy, want to strike all the time, have it too good employees to just do the job they are paid for & they would have to worry about public negative backlash.

February 08, 2010 at 10:39:29 AM
ernesto
This recent bashing of ttc employees is unfair in my eyes. Filming someone sleeping, or filming a ttc employee taking a break, which i am sure is justified, As by law, we all are entitled to a break! I have never used public transit as an adult, but this is something, i have seen as a kid all the time! why are people complaining now??? Has our society become so americanized, that we live our lives like a t.v show??? like come on people grow up, get your cutomers or employers to film you 24 hrs a day, im sure some of you have or do, questionable things while being paid.....

February 08, 2010 at 10:42:41 AM
Pam K.
Some TTC employees should be working instead of creating Facebook pages...Don't ya think???

February 08, 2010 at 10:43:51 AM
rashidme
Total
Trash
Commute

make it private, eh!

February 08, 2010 at 10:51:38 AM
Disappointed
While I agree there are gross inefficiencies in service that need to be addressed, I do not agree with those who are taking vidoes of TTC employees and posting them. The video only tells one side of the story. What would you do if you were a driver and needed to go to the bathroom? Have we all lost sight of the HUMAN factor here? How would you react to having someone record your actions on the job? There are better ways of getting your point across without using people as pawns. Grow up and use the brain you were given.

February 08, 2010 at 10:55:16 AM
grow up already
How many of you enjoy your breaks?
How many of you have ever had to use the bathroom while at work?
I think the only thing wrong with the ttc is the riders? and their poor regard for any one who isn't them. I take the bus every day and if the driver of my bus decides to go for a coffee, Imight even go with him, heck i'll even buy him one. cause he's saving me a trip. no one asked me to take the bus, I take it cause it's the better way. so one guy gets caught taking a nap (i might be speaking for myself but i highly doubt it, but i've taking a nap at work, point out someone who hasn't and i'll call him a liar). and all of a sudden its lets take a picture of every bus driver doing what we all do on a daily basis the only thing is they make more money then 3/4 of the people who take the bus so its ok to pick on them. what about cops?
they make all the same moves bus drivers make. pull over for coffees and bathroom breaks why aren't we taking pictures of them. i am not a bus driver nor am i a cop what i am is a citizen of what is the greatest city with one of the greatest transit systems, and THOSE OF YOU WHO DON'T LIKE IT, YOUR MORE THEN WELCOME TO PACK UP AND GET OUT thank you

February 08, 2010 at 11:08:53 AM
jk
Once again I am so disturbed with riders feeling intitled to constantly harass TTC employees. I would love it, if we could video tape all the complainers at their job and see how it feels. Driving passangers is not an easy job, especially with the schedules that the bus drivers have to keep. if Drivers were paid $15 an hour to do this job, we would have no drivers. 1 in 3000 applicants actually pass the traning to become drivers. This is not an unskilled job. People get a grip. Every job has it's bad apples. There are tones of great TTC employees out there. Union and Management need to do something about this witch hunt.

February 08, 2010 at 11:19:48 AM
john
Work to rule ? How could you tell the difference ? I was the one that sent those pictures my cousin took of the driver using the A.T.M. to the sun. Nothing will ever change with these clowns. Work to rule...Thats funny !!!

February 08, 2010 at 11:25:44 AM
Bus Driver
As most people who read the newspapers rather than make decisions based of pictures would know, there has been a great influx of assaults against operators of the TTC. Myself included, I have taken a substantial amount of abuse since the pictures have been published. I have always greeted every customer with a smile and remained polite at all times, going out of my way to pick up the straggling riders. The other day I noticed a man coming up to the bus as I was driving away so I stopped on the opposite side of the street for him to get on, going above and beyond customer expectations to be courteous. The man got on wanting to fight in this "undeclared war against the TTC" and right off the bat was swearing at me and then spat on me. Will I go out of my way to be courteous again? No. At least not for now. People are always quicker to make videos and complaints against the bad drivers, but how often does one go out of there way to call in an accomodation? When was the last time a video was put up of a driver going out of his way to be nice?
On that note, I will still remain polite and courteous. Will I go out of my way to be "extra" nice? Nope. Will I feel as safe on my next day of work as I did prior to this incident? Nope.
I'll apologize to those that are running for my bus in the future that are well-mannered folks, but my perception of going above and beyond has completely changed. Sorry in advance!

February 08, 2010 at 11:27:12 AM
dave
I really think that the media and public have nothing better to do.
Remember these guys are humans so if they stop to go to the washroom Or get a coffee what’s wrong with that.

February 08, 2010 at 11:27:14 AM
happy rider
I think drivers should bring a pee cup on board. Since the public is not satisfied with humans taking a break. Also Management and the Union are doing a poor job in not deffending their employees. I would stop the bus and kick everyone off. How is the driver suppose to pay attention to his driving when being video taped by someone who is trying to simply make his life complicated. Good on the driver.

February 08, 2010 at 11:29:11 AM
Fijian
Work to rule at least is a good start to better customer service

February 08, 2010 at 11:33:36 AM
Sam
I used to live in Toronto for 30 years and took the TTC for all those years, for school and then work... now I love and work in Seoul South Korea... same size city as Toronto but with 25 Million people and 19 subway lines and a MASSIVE bus system... but wait... the Korean system works, because there are NO EMPLOYEES, its a FULLY AUTOMATED SYSTEM.

Heres your answer to fare collectors and issues with payments and toll booths... make it card swipe system.

Call me "not missing Toronto or the TTC"

February 08, 2010 at 11:36:04 AM
Sandt
The rot in TTC is very deep. The self denial has been solidified due to the public and management looking the other way for over 25 years. Instead of rectifying bad habits and behavior now they want to retaliate against their customers? It's that stale old game of blaming the victims for your own self destructing actions!

February 08, 2010 at 11:37:16 AM
Allie
I am so glad that people are finally documenting what has been going on for years with the TTC. I have been on so many buses that just stopped while the driver went and got coffee that I actually thought they were allowed to do that. However, I wouldn't be surprised to find out that this work to rule threat is real, it makes sense that they will threaten us, the same people they always threaten when they want anything. I say more videos are needed, not less.

February 08, 2010 at 11:40:06 AM
What?
If these TTC workers did their jobs properly with a decent attitude they wouldn't have this problem on their hands. This type of behaviour on a non-unionized job would result in immediate firing!

February 08, 2010 at 11:53:22 AM
ross
commmon be real i think the ttc employees dont realize how good they got it and need to be reminded. open your eyes and realize that when your caught doing these things you need to just shut up and go im sorry shouldent have done it im not allowed to sleep at work if im sick then i dont go to work so why should this be ok for the ttc employees to complain and whine about people catching them in the act the key points are we pay the taxes and the fares your all paid fairly and your asked to do a job. i understand some things are over blown but the fact that you guys are putting this page up i think just tells me how it really is the ttc employees that run this city and for all the hardworking honest employees that work for the ttc i apolagize that you are involved in all of this mess

February 08, 2010 at 11:54:35 AM
Kyle
I've lived in Toronto for nearly 5 years now. And I've had to take the TTC that entire time. During the 5 years, I've met some great employees of the TTC. People who are friendly, courtesy, people who really show to everyone what Torontoians and Canadians are like.

But I've also met some who are rude, disgruntled, and unfriendly. Ones who ignore you when you ask for change, or who sooner chat with their friend than answer a question.

Should these people be brought to light and punished for their misconduct as any worker would? Absolutely. But we shouldn't lose sight that many of these workers are good ones.

Sadly, a Union is a double edged sword. You're able to negotiate a better deal for your members as a group, however when a few of those members act inappropriate the whole is labeled as such.

February 08, 2010 at 11:58:51 AM
Brian
While I am not against a TTC driver taking a break, or think that a sleeping ticket agent is the end of the world. I will say that the attitude for some of the TTC employees is down right rude.

I would be willing to bet that that 7min video would not have made such an impact if it wasn't for the driver's statement "This is the 21st century, kid, not the ’60s; I can do whatever I want."

Take that kind of attitude mixed with several strikes and fare increases, it is no wonder that people are doing what they can to hit back at the TTC.

February 08, 2010 at 12:05:47 PM
Patrick
I cannot understand how job action is supposed to help the negativity towards the employees. Citizens are documenting events, not slandering you unnecessarily. Taking a nap when you are responsible for station security is inexcusable, and those who defend him are being ignorant to the fact that the only one watching the "designated waiting area" (sic) is that man asleep in the booth. He may have an explanation, but there is no excuse.

Further, to say that they don't have breaks on their route as a way to excuse taking it upon themselves to declare their own break time is also reprehensible. They have a union with an excellent track record of getting a good deal for the workers. If you need more breaks, fight it at city hall and please stop trying to excuse your behaviour as normal. I cannot take a break ad hoc when I am at work; there is a time assigned.

I hope they strike. Maybe the citizenry will finally wake up and demand a new company brought in to compete. For further reading, research Osaka's transit system. 3 competing companies, no delays.

February 08, 2010 at 12:06:12 PM
Karl Kannstadter
I have nothing against the drivers or fare collectors. They do a tough job and I'm certain that most of them do a great job.

The problem is that these widespread and systemic problems are indicative of a larger problem at the TTC. The management! Organizations are only as good as their leadership and this is case in point.
Adam Giambrone, Gary Webster and Bob Kinnear should all be ashamed of themselves for allowing this to go on as long as it has and they should all do the right thing and step down. Immediately!

February 08, 2010 at 12:07:21 PM
unhappy rider
Unfortunately, the amount of negative experiences with the TTC overrule the positive ones. I have been taking TTC for years now, and I will admit I have had alot of effcient trips, with helpful staff however the past year has been horrible. Constant delays EVERY morning- Subway Shutdowns more than once a month at times- unhappy and rude staff who make you feel like you are disturbing them when needing help. Streetcars that are supposed to be running on Frequent service that don't show up and when they do there are 3 or 4 cars in a row. Waiting on a bus while a driver takes a 7 minute break- drivers deserve breaks but i'm sure there is a better way of organizing this.

Do I feel for the staff who are abused and spit on, YES.. however if the TTC stepped up there game and proved to all of us Torontonians that they will give us what we pay 120BUCKS A MONTH FOR... then maybe this will eventually subside, and they will be treated with the respect they deserve. Right now, they don't derserve any as far as i'm concerned.

We pay for HORRIBLE SERVICE because we have NO CHOICE. If the ttc wants to keep there employees safe then build a barracade around the drivers seat like many cities have.

at the end of the day, people are starting to speak up now because we have all had ENOUGH.

February 08, 2010 at 12:08:26 PM
Alex
In 20 years of taking the TTC, I don't think I have ever had a positive interaction with a TTC employee. They snarl when you ask directions, look put out when you want to buy tokens and are generally horrible to the people who pay their salaries.

I would be all for privatization.

February 08, 2010 at 12:09:42 PM
Dee
Why is everyone jumping on the bandwagon and mouthing about TTC workers? It shows a lot of ignorance. Yes there are some people who work for the TTC that are completely rude, lazy, whatever... But why is everyone painting them all with the same brush as if it is alright to make a blanket statement which includes all of them. Of course with that many employees there are going to be idiots that work there. But, c'mon, for the sake of those who are good workers, back off a bit. It's not fair to them.

February 08, 2010 at 12:18:21 PM
John
I would also like to mention that the operator who used the washroom at 3 am was doing a night bus shift that is probably 9 hours long. In that 9 hour shift he has no breaks at all. The time they give the driver to get from end to end is already not adequate and the coffee shop at Steeles and Bathurst is closed. In our contract we are not covered by the labour act of receiving 15 min breaks or half hour lunches, given up so the TTC could easily do scheduling.

February 08, 2010 at 12:18:49 PM
Steph
Since when is this video harassment. The driver in the video was no saint. I think the TTC needs some transit competition in the city so they can work on their costumer service skills which they seriously lack.

February 08, 2010 at 12:20:11 PM
whitey72
I've been taking the TTC since I could remember and the stories I could tell you aren't nothing new.

On the Cummer bus about 10 years ago the driver would always stop at the Timmy's on Yonge street to get a coffee. At Pape Station drivers would routinely leave their buses empty at the platform to go to the bathroom and get a coffee & smoke. On the Warden 68 bus drivers would take their dear sweet time driving if they felt like it. At St. patrick subway the collector 1 time was asleep and other time refused to take my money cause he saw me sneeze into my kleenex. On Finch the driver of the Finch East bus would stop and not let anyone in the bus while he had a cigarette and so on and so on.

However, there have been also good employees at the TTC...the same Finch line used to have a woman who would sing and say goodmorning to everyone who entered her bus.....and back during the 80's drivers actually used to help people with strollers and groceries and such onto the bus (sadly not anymore).

so I guess the bad really outweighs the good here....I personally think that the TTC needs to take a step back and re-evaluate their customer service skills....maybe if drivers were just a little bit nicer then the people of Toronto would notice it...it's a 2 way street guys and the thought of you "threatening" us with a "work to rule" is just going to make things ALOT worse.

Remember, you serve the city and what you do is a reflection on it, plus if I was making the kind of money you are making I wouldn't have NO reason not to smile and say hello.

February 08, 2010 at 12:22:59 PM
Rhona Moore
If 70% of all the complaints against ttc employees are caused because of fare disputes, then who is at fault? Why is it that the passengers do not want to pay their fares? I say lets change the fare system. Every person entering the system pays the same fare. GET RID OF TRANSRERS. If you want to see illegal use of transfers go to Broadview station and watch how people coming off busses and subways take as many as three transfer each. Judge for yourself.

February 08, 2010 at 12:43:57 PM
Matthew V.
The Facebook group has now been closed. In all fairness, it had degraded into a discussion polluted with libel and personal attacks from both sides.

February 08, 2010 at 12:46:29 PM
York Student
This group ridiculous. For the money these people are getting, they deserve to get harassed by all means. Especially the ones who don't do their jobs properly, and think they some head honcho of the TTC. In my opinion these people are getting paid way to much for the jobs they aren't doing, and at the same time complain and demand higher wages.

February 08, 2010 at 12:53:29 PM
toronto sucks
What about bringing some competition into the picture and avoid UNIONS period,than we will see a 100% change in attitude instead of excuses for this behavior,take your breaks at the station,and if you got a toilet problem stay the @#$%^& home,and let someone else take me from point'A' to point'B'without any uncalled for 10-15 minute stops in the middle of the trip....$$$$$$$$$ over paid $$$$$$$$ and under worked you .

February 08, 2010 at 1:01:21 PM
None
I think the public is going a little too far with the break thing, everyone is entitled to a break but the sleeping on the job is un-neccessary. Why do people have an increase in fare to pay these workers for doing nothing? That seems to be the issue here. Employees can go on strike anytime they want for pay increases and have the public stranded. I say they should lay off the TTC workers and outsource a company without a union.

February 08, 2010 at 1:01:41 PM
John
This is B.S. I am not from T.O. but the idea that I could get paid over $20.00 an hour and sleep on the job is not fair. Every year the price goes up because they have too much work, long hours, they need more medical coverage or someone else gets paid more.

The public should be able to say what ever we want. We pay for their salary and we are the customers. If they have a problem they shouldn't be working for TTC.

As the people we don't ask very much. But when you see someone doing something that would get us fired and they don't because of the Union.

I would like to remind the Union and the workers of the TTC. That the people are bigger and stronger.

February 08, 2010 at 1:02:52 PM
Miguel
You can't paint all TTC employees with the same brush. But it is undeniable the service as a whole is poor. The union should work to protect those who do their jobs well and sanction those who don't. The bad apples are polluting the basket.

February 08, 2010 at 1:03:20 PM
pierre
Apples and oranges.

TTC staff (employees) are to be held at a higher responsibility than TTC riders (customers). Are there nasty people on both sides? Of course there is, and there are far more nasty riders than staff. We outnumber employees 100 to 1.

The group complains of people taking videos of them and they get in trouble. There are cameras on every bus, one pointed right at the driver/fare box. That footage won't end up on the web, sure, but their actions/behavior is filmed 24/7 in case of disputes.

Most (98%) of TTC staffers are good/great. It's the other 2% (probably 300 or so - look at the number of people on that group) that think they're being unfairly targetted. Stop playing victim and just perform your duties

With regards to that video, my understanding is the driver was already running 15-20 mins late. Some of us commuters rely on these busses to be on time to get to work/school/home. I have been docked pay because busses decided to skip stops or be 18 mins late on a stop that is every 20 mins. I think the rider was well within his rights to take the video, though posting it on youtube was going too far.

February 08, 2010 at 1:05:31 PM
Enough Already!
Everyone is entitled to a break. It's the law. People have to know when to draw the line. There's a differnce between taking a break to get coffee and sleeping on the job. I take the TTC everyday, and i've seen some of the abuse drivers take. At the same time, some drivers are real jerks. I've seen that too. I have also witnessed countless times drivers on their cells while driving and even texting. Yes TEXTING! Bottom line: Passengers, know when to pick and choose your battles.

February 08, 2010 at 1:06:01 PM
bert
The TTC is a total rip off. 3 dollars for a quick ride? Not acceptable ESPECIALLY when many of the workers are so unpleasant. In the past month I have been cheated 5 dollars by a ticket taker who knew I was in a rush to get to the quickly arriving train. I asked to exchange a ten and he only gave me back five dollars in coins so I didn't have time to count everything before I got on.

My very first time riding the subway I was confused about where to put my money and the ticket taker screamed at me accusing me of trying to sneak my way onto the train.

GO transit always looks so professional and clean so why can't the TTC step it up a bit? Sitting on a broken rolling chair with the gut hanging out and coffee in hand does not really say professional toronto service.

February 08, 2010 at 1:13:51 PM
AProblemWithUnions
The patrons of the TTC are using their RIGHT to be heard in a democratic society.The TTC employees are now using their RIGHT to counter these charges.

The main problem is a union which has become so powerful(not surprising given that Toronto is a union controlled city)that an employee can turn to a patron and say "go ahead, I've got a union that will protect me". The same with teachers, police officers,fire fighters, garbage disposal etc.
The unions are now so deeply entrenched that getting rid of mediocre employees has literally become a non-issue in their eyes.
Unless an employee actively assaults a customer, their jobs are protected.
If they drive a bus into a tree while inebriated, don't worry. We will make sure you get the treatment you deserve on the public's dime. And there will be a job waiting for you when you are ready.
Many TTC employees are hard working, committed individuals who deserve the money they are being paid. Unfortunately, they oft times have to work with losers whose intellect in beneath them. Slackers extradinaire!
Do your job TTC union. Get back to the basics. Protect your workers health and safety and get rid of the detritus. Then we can all ride together in harmony.

February 08, 2010 at 1:15:03 PM
Ian
It's time to privatize the TTC. You think the service side is bad, you should see the maintenance side. 12 hours to do a brake job on a bus. Anyone who works hard gets in major trouble with everyone else. It's a dream job at the cost of everyone else.

February 08, 2010 at 1:19:01 PM
Daily User
Let's use some common sense here. A customer service position is a customer service position. I work in IT and would *never* get away with telling a disgruntled user off like that no matter how belligerent they were being.

"Sorry, I know we're late but I really have to use the restroom" would have elicited a better reaction than "This is the 21st century, not the 60s kid."

February 08, 2010 at 1:19:02 PM
jmg
I find a greeting and a smile go a long way whether your a driver or a passenger. It's a shame all TTC employees are being tarnished with the same brush as the bad ones. That's the problem with unions. My bus route is one with absolutely delightful drivers. My subway stop is Dundas and a more miserable bunch is hard to imagine. On the other hand I'm pretty miserable getting on and off at Dundas.

February 08, 2010 at 1:27:48 PM
guest
All you people that are still complaining about the collector that was shown sleeping- did you not read the numerous articles that stated he had a heart procedure and was on medications for it? Many medications make you feel drowzy and because he fell asleep once you all are making him out to be a lazy incompetent employee. I bet the guy who took the picture isn't a perfect employee.

February 08, 2010 at 1:31:12 PM
Reality 101
All you are seeing here are the reactions of a population that has long been passive (something typical of us Canadians in general) and is fed up with the rampant lack of professionalism evident in some of the TTC's employees. The problem though starts at the top as TTC management does not have hardline standards in terms of how customers should be treated. Obviously the union has them by the 'you know whats' and they would never think of embarking on a project for example to change the entire line of thinking that the TTC has in terms of customer service standards. In other parts of the world, for example in London, England, any delays past a minute are reported and drivers are always certain to explain as well as apologize to riders for any delays. We pay way too much money for the TTC not to get a pleasant customer service exprerience. Put up against other transit organizations world wide we would probably fail.

February 08, 2010 at 1:33:22 PM
Carlo
Very poor employee etiquette, fair hikes, long bus/train waits, cleanliness. Remove the union, implement new management, evaluate employee performance, apply a employee scorecard, allow secrete passengers to measure performance and I'll stop driving my car.

February 08, 2010 at 1:50:31 PM
Poor TTC employees
Several comments made on "How bad the TTC employees have it and we the public simply dont understand the pressures the abuse the face everyday".. no one is forcing you to remain on the job you do have options.. Quit!! But dont use that as an excuse for the lazy bad apples caught on camera!!!!!

If your job is that dangerous and the public is as bad as a few of you have described then find another job!! But you know you wont find anything that pays you as ridiculous as what the TTC pays you. We the public on the other hand, as paying customers should not have to tolerate poor service. And how is documenting an employee harrassement? consider it a Service Level survey for which you are failing miserably.

February 08, 2010 at 1:59:12 PM
Chris
I don't understand why those TTC worker was sleeping at work and people think is ok, imagine you sleep in the office during office hour, do you exepect your boss to think is ok?
I actually see a bus driver abandon the bus on the bus stop and went into the convenient store to pick up a magazine, is that an acceptable attitude as well? if you are one of those passenger on board, how would you feel?

February 08, 2010 at 2:12:49 PM
Tom
Drivers do have a life usually/somewhat outside of their regular scheduled job... what.. did you think they drive that bus 24 hours a day 7 days a week? Think before you type!

February 08, 2010 at 2:16:38 PM
Robert
This is truly a joke. I can't think of anything better to demonstrate the complete and total disconnect TTC employees have with reality. One can only hope that this is the minority considering this rediculous "action". If these people really want to stun the public, they should be courteous, alert, and attentive while on the job. Here's a thought, why not tie wages to on-the-job performance like the rest of the work world. It would certainly help the Commission with their budget shortfalls...

February 08, 2010 at 2:20:59 PM
Laura
The fact that some people are suggesting that they fire all employees and hire them back for a pay cut is ridiculous. My father works for the TTC and is one of the hardest working, most polite person I know. His passengers love him, e-mail him constantly, and will complain if he's moved to another bus route. How about we stop generalizing ALL TTC employees and start realizing that even though a bunch of them are rude and arrogant, there are some good people that work for the TTC.

February 08, 2010 at 2:47:09 PM
GRIZZLY
leave the ttc employees alone, they deserve a breakfor washroom and coffee as other humans, i think the ttc should get more aggressive since they have been getting abused by locals shot, beaten, threthened and spited,ttc drivers are not ""CAVE MAN"" IF THEY ARE HUNGRY LET THEM GO GET A FISH ""

February 08, 2010 at 2:56:33 PM
Jas
If we used "because we are human" excuse for every poor behaviour at our jobs, nobody would be working.

When you are getting paid, it's YOUR responsibility to make sure you don't HAVE to go to a bathroom break in the middle of a bus trip (much less get a coffee, which is completely ridiculous as it is not necessity). In a sense, most workplaces require you to leave your humanity at the door; you are getting paid to do what you are told.

What about the riders who had to arrive to work late because the bus driver decided to stop to answer his nature call and grab a donut in the middle of the ride? Their bosses won't accept the excuse. It is THEIR fault no matter what.

What makes you think TTC employees are any exempt?

TTC needs to start operating at a PROFESSIONAL LEVEL. Yes there are very rude riders, as well as very nice and cheerful drivers. This is somewhat like the question of chicken and egg. Which came first, rude drivers or unhappy riders? Except in this case the answer is pretty obvious.

February 08, 2010 at 2:57:12 PM
greg
To the people who think that being a TTC driver is so great and how you wish you could do these things at your job and get away with it, bla bla bla.

I can picture all of you riding the bus, staring at the driver in a trance like state, thinking, "Man, I wish I had his life” As someone steps on the bus and spits in his face.

Now, do you really wish you could trade spots, I doubted it.

If some of you paid as much attention to your own childred as you do the behavours of a bus driver, this place would be better to live in.

February 08, 2010 at 3:09:23 PM
Robert
Torontonians need lives. Stop twittering, get on the bus and get to work. If he stops for coffee, while big deal since I'm sure that everybody slacks off at work. Stop twittering and get to work you lazy bums!

February 08, 2010 at 3:11:57 PM
Debbie
So we have photo's of TTC workers doing something wrong, falling asleep on the job, taking a break. How about not just focusing the TTC why don't we start taking pictures or film of the passengers doing somthing wrong! Putting there filthy feet on the chairs, dumping their garbage on the floor, spilling pop or coffee or food, how about the ones who are abusive and rude, or the ones who don't pay their fares and enter the subways illegally, or the ones who sit in the seat asigned to the elderly while and elderly person stands near by. Why just limit it to the TTC workers,the passengers are just as bad.

February 08, 2010 at 3:15:22 PM
Al
Hi I think the main issue over here is being a dictator.... All of these things were happening before. drivers were taking there coffee and bathroom breaks. but when the price increase happened it made all the riders handicap. they couldn't do anything against these dictator who just imposed the price increase on us. being they have the monopoly as a rider we are upset and thats when all the aggression started. there should be other bus services other then TTC to be allowed in Toronto. there should be more choices believe me the only reason i take TTC is because i don't have a choice.

February 08, 2010 at 3:17:09 PM
Kelsey
First of all, concerning the whole break situation. I am a receptionist, and I cannot leave my desk, unless I know there is someone who can answer the telephone, not for a break, or my lunch, or even the bathroom. And when I do go, I have to make it quick, and notify the person who will be watching my position while I am gone. You take your break on your own time, do not tell me that they do not have 5 minutes when they stop the bus at the terminal to use the washroom because that is totally untrue. Bus drivers are taking their fancy union and paychecks for grantite. You get paid that much money, to sit down and drive all day. Give me a break, you're not doing anyone a "service". You're doing your job, if you weren't getting paid that much, you'd quit, or strike in the MIDDLE of a recession like you already HAVE. It shows just how low the morals of this union and it's employee's are. I'd rather pay an extra 25$ to take a taxi cab then to take the TTC. I think we should just fire all the employees that keep wanting pay increases and all their precious little extra's that MOST PEOPLE do not receive from sitting down for 8+ hours and hire people who would love to do that job, well people who would love to even be employed, like all the unemployed people in this city. And by the way, get rid of the union. They are just plain revolting.

February 08, 2010 at 3:30:59 PM
Rei
Go ahead and take a coffee break, as long as it's under five minutes! I don't think it's such a big deal.
Sometimes people fall asleep at work, it happens. We're all just human!

I've been taking the TTC for a decade and I can forgive almost everything I see that they do wrong. The one thing that bugs me the most though is when they come five or more minutes early on a bus route...what's the excuse for that?

If you are late, you're late, you can't help that, but when a bus route has a bus coming every 20+ minutes, if a bus scheduled to come at 8:00 comes at 7:54 for example, and they won't wait for someone trying to cross the road to get to them, well waiting for the 8:20-30 bus is not fun. They should be zero tolerance for early buses.

February 08, 2010 at 3:44:05 PM
PeN
sleeping on the job: not cool anywhere.

taking a 7 minute coffee and bathroom stop: understandable

making an fb group so fellow employees can come together to complain about their customers. where did your professionalism go? ttc if you want to be treated like an essential services, then act like one. do you see firefighters, police officers, paramedics set up a group complaining about their "clients"?

for what you are getting paid in these times, you guys have it really good. take some responsibility most of the complaints are valid.

February 08, 2010 at 4:02:01 PM
John
Well Kelsey than you have a labour law dispute. You are entitled to 2 breaks and a 30 min lunch within an 8 hour day. As far as 5 mins at the end, if it is not scheduled and the bus is late then no we don't have 5 mins. We also don't have facilities at all route ends. We as a union gave up the right to labour law breaks so the commission could run 24 hour routes with the unwritten understanding that the occasional stop along the way would be tolerated. We are not only paid for our time but also for the safe operation and transport of our customers which also includes high liability on our part. The manager of your office is paid more for his extra responsibilities.

February 08, 2010 at 4:06:19 PM
MR. OFER
I THINK PEOPLE ARE OVERREACTING
WE ALL HAVE TO TAKE A BREAK AT WORK WHEN I WORK CONSTRUCTION MY BOSS &THE OTHER WORKERS WOULD TAKE 2 10 MINUTES BREAK & 30 MINUTES FOR LUNCH IWOULD GET 5-15
MINUTES. WHAT ABOUT PEOPLE THAT WORK A WAITERS BARTENDERS THEY DON'T GET ANY BREAK PEOPLE COMPLAIN TOOO MUCH THAT IS THE PROBLEM THE TTC OPERATERS ARE HUMANS TOO YOU KNOW THAT MY TAKE ON THIS.

February 08, 2010 at 4:09:44 PM
DL
Bus drivers do not spend the full shift in the bus. They take their breaks when they reach the final stop (usually the subway station). They can get out and buy their coffee in the subway station's Timmy H and goto the bathroom then. I'm sure they reach their final stop at least 5 times a day. It's not acceptable if they have to stop in the middle of the ride and buy coffee from Starbucks because they don't like Timmy's coffee or use another washroom because the ones in the subway stations are disgusting. I wish I could go shop for things during my work hours, but I can't. So TTC drivers shouldn't either. Stupid TTC drivers that stop in the middle are the cause of 3 to 4 buses arriving at the same time rather than spreading out.

February 08, 2010 at 4:13:25 PM
REPORT TO FACEBOOK
Here's a thought: Report this group to Facebook. The group says "And post photo's of your own of passengers breaking the rules."

We pay for the right to ride the bus. Now if we break whichever "rules" they are referring to, they want to post our pictures online? That is "targets me or a friend" if I ever saw one.

I hope TTC brass is closely monitoring this group, and appropriate action will be taken. I know if I see a TTC employee putting my mug on the internet without my permission, they can expect to hear from my attorney.

February 08, 2010 at 4:36:15 PM
cheryl
I don't see any pictures of the TTC drivers who I have personally seen assisting moms with baby strollers and seniors with canes. I really think this whole situation is getting out of hand. The sad part is that someone is going to get hurt as a result of ignorance. Come on Toronto, be kind and thank your driver at the end of your journey for getting you where you are going safely!

February 08, 2010 at 4:41:58 PM
Greg
to all that are still backing the sleeping ttc collector...so WHAT if he was on medication? then don't come to work! take the day off, even if it's w/o pay...he got caught red handed and he paid the price for it by having everyone ridicule him. don't work OT or take extra hours for the EXTRA PAY if you can't handle it. ppl should keep documenting the bad behaviour, maybe, just maybe there will be any change if at all (*false hope)

February 08, 2010 at 4:46:12 PM
Tina
I was actually on the 6 Bay bus this morning with the driver loudly complaining to a postal worker about how the Union should sue the City and the Toronto Star for creating problems for them and that maybe he should start taking more sick days.
I mean we all have work complaints, but how about NOT talking about them in front of your customers?!?

February 08, 2010 at 4:55:24 PM
KB
Ok really this is turning into a witch hunt!! Yes the TTC is not perfect, and yes something needs to done about the issues they are facing....but do riders really need to taping every movement that TTC employees are making. Just like everyone else who works they too are intitled to a break at some point. These employees take alot CRAP on a daily basis from alot of riders, and I have seen it first hand...so really maybe everyone should take a good look at their conduct while on the TTC!!

February 08, 2010 at 5:30:36 PM
Operator
Cant' we all just get along! lol Come on Toronto! There's worse in the world to worry about than an operator grabbing a coffee - The guy was four minutes not seven by the way. (He probably was ahead of schedule to boot.)

I think this whole thing stems from public frustration with the system in general and should be addressed to the TTC not the Unionized employees. We are simply working with the system we have. Split shifts, no breaks, Route Management issues and things of that nature.

What I'm saying here is I'm here to serve and serve I do to the best of my ability. Without the butt kissing of course lol. So smile, grab a coffee, and let your operators know that you care about them as much as they care about you! Lets worry about the rest of the world and how much they need us and stop focusing on ourselves so much.

Can I get an Amen up in here!

Love you Toronto!

February 08, 2010 at 5:34:38 PM
excuse me
1 in 3000??? Where in the world do you get your info from.If you're going to state facts, at least keep them accurate. When I take a break at work, it's a scheduled break.Routes are made to run on a schedule.When a driver stops to take a coffee break in the middle of a run, it makes people wonder whether he is running fast or will be behind for the rest of the trip.All the driver has to do is call the coffee shop at his turn around and tell them to bring out a coffee at a certain time and I'm sure they would. (give a tip).

February 08, 2010 at 5:43:55 PM
Jessica
Another perfect example of TTC that been happening to me for the past year, bus driver refused to give me a transfer when I asked nicely, then when the driver got changed I asked another driver, the driver gave it to me, one driver refused to open the door while I was at the bus stop, buses drive off the same way while I was at the bus stop, my husband almost froze 2 nights ago while we were trying to get the bus and the driver passed us while we were at the bus stop, then sat at the curb for 20 mins, we had to end up walking to another bus stop and waited for another bus!!!! They deserve to be called out, they are rude, unfair, and racists also!!!! If they have to have a break to go to the washroom, fine, but they do go overboard by kicking the passengers off during the winter by saying not in service!!!

February 08, 2010 at 5:46:23 PM
Bill Pappin
They started a facebook group and now I have too. Look for the "TTR (Toronto Transit Riders)" group on facebook.

February 08, 2010 at 5:47:02 PM
hugo3
Its all because Unions, no matter where u look. Unions were responsible for all of this

February 08, 2010 at 5:51:06 PM
hugo3
happy rider: its OK to go for a pee break, its not OK to buy a coffee or talk over the cell phone or do things that u not supposed to do while u work. There isnt any route that long that someone cant wait for the last stop to go for a coffee break. Dont tell me that its impossible. I'm even able to hold more then a hour for a pee break. It's all only bull here, and ofcouse those who dont like it are loud on facebook. That's lame

February 08, 2010 at 5:52:36 PM
TTC Driver
As a TTC driver for the past 10 years, I have noticed a growing contempt for staff and an equal contempt for the people who use the system. It's a battle that will never be won, as we all exist in a social setting that entails what I like to call a "People Dynamic".

Customers are increasingly irritated at poor service and system breakdowns, and staff are frustrated with belligerent, violent passengers who vent at the front line. We are directing our anger in the wrong places. The system has been financially neglected for decades which has now caused stress from all angles. Bad buses, old streetcars, more traffic, crumbling subways, fare hikes, unfinished projects are now the norm when discussing what was once a good system.

February 08, 2010 at 5:54:48 PM
hugo3
if drivers are not allowed to have 15 min breaks in their shifts its not a problem of ppl but of the drivers, where is your union to fight for your right ? or is that because if u work constantly without a break are u getting more money ? so where is the problem ? so if u are paid for your work without interruption then you work, if you don't like it change the job. u can go on welfare

February 08, 2010 at 5:55:03 PM
SS
Well, I know for a fact there are some good operators out there, who are kind and helpful and humorous.
I'm sure there a bad employees too, as there are in many places. For every bad employee is a good one who's been harassed/assaulted, etc.
Should that excuse the poor behavior of employees? NO.

Perhaps a little courtesy from both sides would help? I was raised to cleanup after myself, and treat people with respect. I was also taught that if I'm in a customer service job, I should be doing my best at my job.

Breaks are a right, yes, and it's only fair they should be worked into the schedule, so people aren't missing connecting buses, etc.

February 08, 2010 at 6:34:25 PM
christina n robertson
i used to take the subway for as long as i can remember there have been problems since i was a kid, the only differance is that there are camaras EVERYWHERE. People must understand that NOTHING is perfect, now imagine if they(Riders) had the public watching them at work????...and having ALL these people judging them..they are going to feel just as bad as the public is making the TTC employees feel.At the end of the day we are all human and we all have our faults people LOVE to remember the BAD and not think about the good...what about the TTC empoloyees that have SAVED and HELPED the riders when in need?????.....that goes to show that they(riders) will never be satisfied with whatever you try to give them...there are BAD apples everywhere even where they(riders) work.

February 08, 2010 at 6:34:45 PM
CD
Public transit sucks, everyone should buy a car and put the transit systems out of commision.

February 08, 2010 at 6:55:16 PM
Unknown
I think TTC bus drivers are doing a good job. The fare problem has occurred because (1) there is a lot of bus drivers and (2) people are not even paying the right fare in the first place! For example, invited transfers, students put in Child Fares, that's cheating the system! They also cheat the system when they are walking in the subway at Finch Station for example or even Scarborough Town Center.

I also think that if a driver wanted a five minute break, they should be able to do so as long as the drivers are driving the bus safety, and does not fall asleep, I don't see what the problem is. If the subway washrooms are closed, how exactly can the drivers stop that? Obviously they need to go to the next convenient location.

February 08, 2010 at 7:22:56 PM
transfrustrated
why all the hubaballo about ttc employees sleeping on the job ect. just thank goodness its the ttc, try brampton, or york region transit, at least ttc busses stop to pick up custumers and you don't have to try to chase them down on another bus trying to make them stop, or adversly as soon as you almost get to the door they take off.

ttc is much better,so a collector fell asleep at leastr that didn't affect riders.

why don't we bring in a law about unsolicited picture takeing. many peeps don't want their picture taken, unless a CRIME or abuse against that person is going on anyone who takes pics or vidio should be charged with minamum public mistchiff.

February 08, 2010 at 7:27:39 PM
John
What exactly would you people do if you were them? No company is perfect, no one is perfect. When was the last time you had deal with youe phone comapny? At the end of the day, you still own a phone even though you hate dealing with the customer service reps. You people who take the bus should worry more about the drivers getting you from A to B, then how long they take their breaks. Your "bum" would be walking to work in this weather without the drivers.

February 08, 2010 at 7:42:57 PM
Judi
Big Brother & Sister.
Think about it if we can do this to TTC workers it can happen to anyone and we are all at risk. This is true backwards harrassment and the media is mostly to blame for even acknowledgeing this crap. Do we have more important things to worry about than whether a bus driver needs his coffee in the morning when hes early and there are two people on the bus . There are alway two side or three to every story and this one is getting trite.

February 08, 2010 at 8:24:35 PM
dt
i guess the less important issues like crime, homelessness, poverty, poor education system, kids shooting kids, ect....should be put on the back burner until we solve this world crisis. unscheduled pee breaks, drinking coffee on the job, what is our society coming to. before you know it everyone wants a break and coffee. does anyone think the 12 year old that probably made the shoes your wearing gets a coffee break. doubt it.

February 08, 2010 at 8:44:31 PM
ykc28
Work to rule! I like that, at least TTC employees have rule to refer to.

February 08, 2010 at 8:53:39 PM
happy rider
Hey complainers. Do the job then judge. To take a pee in a coffee shop you must purchase something. TTC driver have to adhere to their schedule set to them from supervisors. I think TTC should schedule in 2 15 breaks and 30 min lunch breaks while we riders wait, or better yet hire people to cover them while taking their breaks so we pay more. the receptionist stated that she needs someone to cover her so she may take a break. Who does the driver have? Common sense people. I know a lot of drivers who are good people and they don't deserve this crap. I believe in Karma and I hope you complainers have someone film you doing something that is human and call you on it. You people make me embarrassed to be Torontonian.

February 08, 2010 at 9:06:03 PM
NBB
Customer resentment of TTC has always been present; however with the fare increase this has been festering and now coming to the surface. While there are some TTC employees who lack the very basic customer care skills and are misfits in their jobs, there are a good ratio of irresponsible commuters who do not appreciate the service TTC staff provide. These passengers are abusive in tone and action and ought to find alternative means of transport. Taking videos of TTC employees' callousness is uncalled for and ought to stop. Take your grievance to the TTC Management and hope that they will take appropriate action (though one never hears back from the TTC when you lodge a complaint). TTC Management has obviously been looking the other way, to let the situation come to this state.

February 08, 2010 at 9:17:16 PM
NotInService
I would like to see if people would be video taping cops if things were reversed. You'll see how fast the public would drop those fucken cellphones

February 08, 2010 at 10:16:28 PM
Kyle
Most (if not all) cop cruisers have a dash camera to record traffic stops. The microphone can also record what's been said inside the police cruiser.

February 08, 2010 at 10:41:49 PM
Greg In Toronto
I've been living in Toronto for almost 10 years now and the TTC is still the best way to get around. When I have to get somewhere in the middle of a snowstorm, there's a driver there to take me where I have to go. If I want to get out of the city Christmas morning,or get back at the end of the day there is a TTC employee there to help. Like most Torontonians I've run into the rude, arrogant driver, but I find most people will treat you with the same respect you show them.
In all honesty, I'd rather have the driver stop for a coffee than fall asleep behind the wheel. It's not the end of the world people! Relax!

February 08, 2010 at 11:00:48 PM
enough whineing already about sleeping drivers
why is there such a furor over ttc employees? these are people just like us trying to get through their day without getting assulted.

i think that it is past time that the ttc and ttc drivers started to POST EVERY ASSSULT ON DRIVERS, mabe people will then understand why drivers do some of what bothers us.

as for the person who said earlyer about a bus passing them, were you perhapse at a stop that isn't serviced at the time you were there, this has happened to me the better of two stops across an intersection from each other (better as actualy has a shelter the other dosn't), but after the bus passed by i noticed a tiny yellow mark on the pole that said that stop was only serviced dureing rush hour times.

there are REAL transit issues out there, such as the high cost (and by the way ttc is cheaper than viva, brampton and york region transit systems (viva is even being nice and not raiseing the fare past $3.25, not to mention the extra zone fares in york region). and out there busses will pass by quite often while you are trying to catch them (and it's not as if they are overfull like most ttc buses that may pass stops.

another REAL transit issue is the time differance between takeing a bus and driveing (my dayly trip takes about 500% longer ie my half hour drive turns into a 2 hour trip by bus). we realy need to masivly expand rt systems/subway systems across southern ontario.

what would realy help is if the government would stop missapropriateing the taxes on gas, and actualy spend the billions of dollers collected on transit,road maintanance and road building (which some people might remember is suppost to go directly to only those things).

February 08, 2010 at 11:08:09 PM
Grow up
When's the last time someone made you pause in the middle of ordering fast food to go to the bathroom? Even fast food joints have it right. Grown ups are able to wait for an hour to go, and if they're not then maybe they shouldn't be put in the position of driving a bus. Emergencies are understandable but given the number of times I alone have seen this they're either abusing the lack of oversight or have been drinking tainted water.

I've *never* seen a single job where someone was in front of customers and was able to put service on hold, wander off, and get a coffee or go to the bathroom. They're called scheduled breaks. Your kids' teachers get them, construction workers get them, as do lots of people in other vocations.

It's been said time and time again, people aren't perfect. However that's no reason to not stride for perfection; when you're aiming for it you'll just end up that much closer to the mark.

Seeing stupid situations doesn't make things better. On Feb 1st, subway service at Osgoode was suspended both ways because of a problem at St. Patrick. The *only* collector booth with someone in it was closed. The collector was counting money, though to his credit was answering peoples' questions... unfortunately the answer to "Can I at least buy a monthly pass since I have to take a surface route?" was "No, I'm closed."

And for the record, I call someone out if they leave their nasty orange peel lying around on transit, or put their nasty feet up. (Don't even get me going about the 'toenail clipping' subway ride.)

February 08, 2010 at 11:17:09 PM
Transit Ops
Just want to add this is not a Union thing......Our Union has been hiding under a rug since this began!...Just now after they've had no choice are they holding a conference in the morning!!......_uck you very much! The ATU is as usless as the management!- (TTC)

Out with Kinnear!
should have vanished last in the last vote!

WHo's laughing now loser's!

February 08, 2010 at 11:45:06 PM
Carrie
I take the viva all the time and I never have any issue with employee taking longs breaks. I know the YRT has the issue but not viva.

Maybe its the system that needs to be changed, not necessarily always the people themselves.

February 08, 2010 at 11:49:20 PM
duh
i have seen several general theams going arround on this issue.
first off breaks: almost every employee has not only the right to take breaks, but according to general labour law YOU MUST HAVE A BREAK AT LEAST EVERY FOUR HOURS. ttc is one of the exceptions to this rule since they have a contract. drivers DO NOT HAVE schedualed breaks, the get them when they can.oh yeah and just for those who like being safe on a bus, drivers drink lots of coffie to keep awake (its hard to do when you are bored while going back and forth the same route all day), with drinking this coffie you need to pee (coffie, coke ecty are called diaretics they make you have to go), i have noticed on long drives that if i have to gop pee i start to also have a hard time staying awake and alert, take the pee and everything is good). so i def prefer a driver stopping to take a leak, it's better then him falling asleep and crashing the bus.
perhapse it's time that ttc employees were given schedualed breaks (by the way this would mean gaps in the line so you will end up waiteing longer).
then we hear about lousy custumer service. i hate to say it but that is the PUBLICS dirrect FAULT. seriously, how many people whineing at YOU day in and out, being harrased, KNOWING you could easily be assulted the next time you open the door, would it take before YOU became a "bad custumer service person"? not long i bet.
the general public itself is to blaim for the bad service they cause by their own bad attitudes, not the drivers who are abused on a daily basis. stop the abuse and you will see improvements.

February 08, 2010 at 11:57:31 PM
Please do not pollute!
Work to rule eh?>Let me tell you this is something that must not be told to do!!It's you who got 'derailed' by not working to rule,and now you want to get back on track?

Now,all humans are different for sure.Honestly i met a couple of nice TTC drivers,but mostly all of the res are rude!

February 08, 2010 at 11:59:30 PM
jay
I work for the ttc. If u guys think that this will stop drivers to get a coffee. i doubt it. i always stop for a coffee atleast once a day and will continue to do so. Before u guys take my picture just let me know so i can smile for the camera.

February 09, 2010 at 12:00:54 AM
Nash
TTC employee behaviour is totally boisterous and dictator-oriented. They are doing this just becuase they are highly paid, under-managed, and professional with low customer service skills. I was stranded in the middle of the night in cold winter 2009 coz the TTC called the strike that time. Gues what I did after that, I haven't traveled in TTC again.

Their boisterous and unacceptable customer service comes from the fact that they have lot of security here being the monopoly. They are the only service provider in Toronto and we to make them come to their senses, we should have other transport services. I think it's a global phenomena, even Tube services in London is worse and is an object of an ongoing debate.

February 09, 2010 at 12:05:14 AM
duh 2
reading through these posts i find several interesting points. one person complains about a deaf ear when needing change. if the driver were to make change for you he could be fired, as it is against pollicy so as to stop drivers from takeing fares and pocketing them, he is on camera now so good luck.
same thing for helping get stollers, groceries ect onto the bus. this is not alowed by the commision to reduce liability lawsuits, for example, a driver is helping get a stoller on the bus, he looses huis footing and the kid gets hurt, well there is a nice lawsuit against the ttc, and even the city. therefore a driver doing this risks his job, as it is DEFINATLY AGAINST the pollicies they are CONTRACTED to obey.
got to love kevin of taxoronto's shot. do you realize that if drivers don't do overtime that means that there will be large gaps in service as there would be not enough drivers available to cover, duh how do you think they get the overtime in the first place? someone has to drive busses.
oh yes and one reason why the ttc fights so hard dureing contract negotiatios, is because back in the 80's when the recession hit the drivers said" ok we understand there are finantual problems we will stay pat, no real raise ect". 2 weeks later the ttc commisioners voted themseles a HUGE wage increase with what they saved by not giveing the drivers wage increases. so guess what from then on it has been hard bargening since they know what they don't get will just line the commisioners pockets.
almost everyone reading this would DO THE EXACT SAME THING IF IT HAPPENED TO YOU so stop the bellyaching at the drivers and give it to the commisioners.

February 09, 2010 at 12:07:13 AM
Claudia
I think it there is nothing wrong if a driver has to take a quick bathroom break. 7 min. is pretty long but it could happen that somebody really needs that much time. HOWEVER....I`m kinda glad to see people telling all their stories about TTC staff being rude. I used to take the TTC all the time before I had my child and for the most part I was very happy. You have good service and bad service everywhere. Now that was 4 years ago. Ever since I mainly use my car. After it broke down last year I had to use the TTC for about 1 week in the middle of winter. I was not too upset about it because I thought my 2 1/2 year old would love the experience. Boy, was I wrong. I used to take the 501 streetcar between Islington and Long Branch and the whole week I had nothing but rude drivers. They got nothing but annoyed because it took me a little longer to get my child and stroller into the streetcar, rolling their eyes and making a sour face. At the end of the week one of the drivers told me to hurry up since there is other people on this streetcar who want to get off. He had the nerve to say this to a mom with a small child, struggling with a stroller and heavy snow. I was so shocked I was in tears. I wish I would have asked him for his name and badge # but at this moment I just forgot. I was glad to get my car back and if I don`t absolutely have to, I will not take the TTC ever again. I rather take a taxi, at least I get my money`s worth.

February 09, 2010 at 12:09:02 AM
Marta
The problems are not new, we've been understanding for decades. The only difference is in the skyrocketing fares; they went out of controll.
Mess: the last 5-6 yrs. TTC has stopped to clean even the windows. Mess makes mess.
Bus drivers: everybody has bladder problems? Ask for another position. What about subway/streetcar drivers? (Not to mention coach lines or trains - they don't stop for wiwi or lunch breaks.)
All the bosses at TTC: you make this with your impotency of organizing the TTC. Until you are tired of "explanations" instead of actions, "scrunity" won't change. Don't fingerpoint us, we pay for your service and we are not satisfied. And because you don't answer or just give us some "explanation" for our complains we will confront your employees even if it's right or sometimes unfair. It's that simple.

February 09, 2010 at 1:38:01 AM
Dan
To those with the "who doesn't slack off in their job?" argument: TTC front line employees are facing customers. I'm sure you won't find any customer service rep at a dept store or bank doze off? Also I don't need to be able to do a better job than they can if I'm to criticize them. Everyone criticizes politicians and even country leaders time to time; does that mean everyone can run a country better than they can? Lastly, non-paying riders... Well if you ticket person is dozing off and effectively NOT THERE you're like blaming the 'honest system' which isn't very reliable because of human nature. Perfect solution is the smart card fare system which will collect fare much more reliably and get rid of all the human collectors that are bored to death they need to doze or watch DVD; but yet TTC is the system that is pushing back on the smart card system the most.... The trouble maker whining about the troubles.

February 09, 2010 at 5:20:27 AM
A different Kyle
I'd love to see the system automated as others have mentioned. Both Montreal and Chicago are heavily automated with most stations only staffed with a security guard that stays in a booth while all transactions are via machines.

Montreal uses an rfid system that doesn't even require you to take the card out of your wallet. Wave your wallet, beep, you're in.

Toronto's fare system is becoming a ancient without even mentioning the ridiculous over pricing or monthly pass punishing.