TTC workers union taking 'first step' towards striking

The union that represents Toronto transit workers says it has taken the first step toward striking.

ATU Local 113 has applied to the Ministry of Labour to request the appointment of a conciliation officer, the union said in a news release on Monday.

"While this is only the first step towards strike action, ATU Local 113 is prepared to move to direct action up to and including a full withdrawal of services," the union said.

Conciliation is the process that parties must complete "to be in a legal strike or lockout position," according to the Ontario government website.

The union said it has been in negotiations with the TTC for weeks to get transit workers a new contract.

They said the TTC is "refusing to align" with the union on matters including job security, wages and benefits.

CBC Toronto has reached out to the TTC for comment.