OTTAWA (CBC) - Commuters in Canada's largest city face a normal trip to work Monday after the Ontario legislature ordered an end to a weekend strike by workers at the Toronto Transit Commission.

An emergency session of the legislature Sunday afternoon resulted in quick passage of back-to-work legislation, ending the strike that lasted about 36 hours and raised fears of a chaotic commute during the work week.

Nearly 9,000 bus, subway and streetcar drivers, maintenance workers and other staff began heading back to work Sunday evening.

"It goes without saying that Toronto, our capital city, plays an important role for all Ontarians," said Premier Dalton McGuinty in the legislature. "By acting on behalf of Toronto workers, and families and businesses, we are acting in the best interests of all Ontarians."

The strike was called Friday evening after workers rejected a proposed new contract reached after months of collective bargaining between the Amalgamated Transit Union and TTC management.

On Sunday morning, buses, streetcars and subways were already being readied to return to the roads and the rails in anticipation of the legislation. After the law passed, buses and street cars were gradually returned to service Sunday evening and overnight.

Resumption of subway service was aimed at having trains on a normal schedule by Monday-morning's rush hour.

On a typical weekday, about 1.5 million fares are paid by riders using the TTC, making it the biggest public transportation system in the country.

McGuinty called the rare Sunday session after Toronto Mayor David Miller requested back-to-work legislation to end the walkout.

Compulsory mediation, arbitration

The bill imposes mediation and then arbitration on any issues that are still outstanding between the TTC and its union - and if the two sides cannot agree on a mediator-arbitrator within five days, the government will appoint one.

The legislation says the mediator-arbitrator has to take into account some factors external to the bargaining table, such as the city's and the province's ability to pay.

The bill was given royal assent by Lt.-Gov. David Onley.

If the union, or any of its members, defy the legislation, they could face fines of $25,000 per day for the union and $2,000 per day for individuals.

Ontario Opposition Leader John Tory is lambasting union leaders for what he calls an "irresponsible" and "selfish" walkout.

He says commuters and other transit workers not covered by the strike call deserve an apology.

With files from the Canadian Press

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