Updated: Wed Nov. 11 2009 4:27:57 PM

ctvtoronto.ca

Unionized staff at DriveTest have strongly turned down what employer Serco DES Inc. had termed a "final offer."

According to a news release from United Steelworkers Local 9511 issued Wednesday, the membership voted 78 per cent 'no.' There are more than 550 members across the province.

"After 12 weeks of this unnecessary strike, this vote will send a strong message to Serco DES Inc. (DRIVETEST)," said Jim Young, the local's president, in a statement.

"We can only hope that Serco will finally listen to their employees, quit playing counter-productive games and negotiate a fair contract so the citizens of Ontario can get the quality service they deserve."

Young called on the company to return to the bargaining table.

The main issue in the dispute is job security. The union claims the company cuts back workers' hours in the fall and winter. Some are laid off and replaced by supervisors.

The strike began Aug. 21 and affects a total of 93 sites where people go to get examined for their driver's licence. People over the age of 80 also get tested there. People who simply need to renew their licence without taking a test can do so at Ontario Driver and Vehicle Licence Issuing Offices.

Serco signed a 10-year deal with the province in 2003 to provide driver testing services.