STRIKE: Shutdown highlights ‘critical issues’ with city transit in Brampton, union says [Video]

While Mayor Patrick Brown says the city won’t be held “hostage” by some 1,200 striking municipal workers, the job action has led to disruptions on transit and several other departments. (Photo: CUPE 831)

A strike that ground buses to a halt across the city is evidence of “critical issues” with Brampton Transit according to the union which says it’s ready to get back to the bargaining table.

Some 1,200 City of Brampton workers under Canadian Union of Public Employees 831 walked off the job on Thursday after negotiations with the city over wage increases broke down.

Brampton Transit operators and drivers are under a different union but many have refused to cross picket lines at transit facilities in a show of support with their colleagues, leading to severe disruptions on routes.

And while Mayor Patrick Brown says he was “deeply disappointed” by the disruptions, the union says the strike has …