CTV has learned the details in a tentative deal between the City of Ottawa and the union representing OC Transpo.

The new contract with Amalgamated Transit Union 279 is a four-year agreement which will include:

  • Pay increase over four years for ATU members
  • More union input on scheduling
  • Stronger contract language on OC Transpo's ability to outsource maintenance contracts
  • Reopening of Merivale garage

The pay increase will be 2 per cent per year for the first three years, and a 2.25 per cent increase in the fourth.

The union's ability to have a say on scheduling was one of the most contentious issues which sparked the infamous bus strike of 2008. Now transit riders won't have to worry about that happening for at least another four years.

The drivers CTV spoke to are optimistic. They told reporter John Hua another strike is not something they want and that if the deal is good enough "we'd probably be extremely happy to have this over and done with."

ATU 279 members will have a chance to review a copy of the agreement CTV received earlier today via the union's website.

Members will gather at a meeting being held at Lansdowne Park Thursday. They will vote to accept or reject it next Tuesday.

With a report from CTV Ottawa's John Hua