TORONTO - Choosing to build new low-floor, light-rail transit vehicles in Canada is absolutely wonderful news and will ensure Canadians receive maximum economic benefit for this record government purchase, said CAW President Ken Lewenza following news that Toronto Transit Commission staff have recommended Bombardier as the recipient of a massive $1.3 billion transit project for the city.

"This contract will not only ensure job security for workers at Bombardier's Thunder Bay facility, but thousands of workers in the community, and the province of Ontario," Lewenza said.

"This is positive news, considering the devastating conditions Canadians are facing during this global economic crisis."

The nine city councilors that sit on the Toronto Transit Commission are expected to vote on the staff recommendation at a meeting on April 27. Lewenza said the union is strongly encouraging the commissioners to vote in favour of the staff recommendation.

The CAW represents about 600 skilled trades and production workers at Bombardier's rail car facility in Thunder Bay.