The negotiating teams for the Toronto Zoo and CUPE Local 1600 have reached a tentative agreement. The tentative agreement will be shared with union members for a ratification vote, as well as the Toronto Zoo Board of Management. We believe this tentative agreement is fair, reasonable and acknowledges the unique work that is done at the Zoo. Consistent with the Board's notice and procedural requirements, a Special meeting will be arranged for the purpose of the Board's ratification of the tentative agreement.

During the strike, exempt staff working under the supervision of Wildlife Care experts, veterinarians and curators with years of experience, took on the responsibility of caring for our animals. We want to extend a sincere thank you to these exempt employees and their families who made a number of sacrifices over the past month. As a result of their hard work, commitment and dedication, the animals continued to receive excellent care and our critical conservation programs were not impacted by the strike. Each of these employees are to be commended for their tremendous efforts.

We will now be assessing over the next 24 – 48 hours how quickly we can re-open the Zoo if the tentative agreement is ratified.

We want to thank our valued guests, members and clients for their patience during the labour disruption and we look forward to their continued support for the Toronto Zoo as a world leader in conservation, education and scientific programs.

Media contact:
Jennifer Tracey
Senior Director, Marketing, Communications Partnerships
Toronto Zoo
416-669-7074