Statement from ATU

TORONTO, ONTARIO--(Marketwired - Oct. 31, 2013) - A renewed call for parliament to adopt legislation to combat assaults on bus drivers was at the forefront again today. In the wake of another brutal attack, Deputy Liberal Leader Ralph Goodale held a press conference and was joined by the Amalgamated Transit Union Canadian Council to reinforce the need for stronger protection for transit workers in Canada's Criminal Code.

A Private Members Bill, tabled by Goodale in May, calls for the aggravated nature of the assaults on vulnerable transit employees be taken into account during sentencing.

ATU is appreciative of the recognition and attention that that this Bill, and others, have received, both inside and outside parliament. We believe that this legislation is both necessary and urgent as assaults on drivers are a daily occurrence.

There are more than 2,000 transit operators assaulted each year, ranging from more minor incidents such as spitting or uttering threats to punching, stabbing and sexual assault.

The ATU is actively pursuing with the Federal Minister of Justice, amendments to the Criminal Code that would recognize the increased number of assaults on our members, the vulnerability of these workers and the dangers they face.

We are optimistic that Members of Parliament will recognize the importance of this Bill and will support tougher legislation to increase the ability to prosecute offenders and deter future assaults.