Metrolinx has removed a GO bus driver from service pending further investigation after the driver failed an alcohol test Thursday following a tip from a concerned rider.

On Thursday, a rider contacted Transit Safety because she was concerned about a bus driver’s driving ability.

The driver, who had picked up people in Brampton, was removed from service at York Mills station. The driver failed drug and alcohol testing, and was removed from duty pending further investigation, Metrolinx said.

Metrolinx said they have “engaged” Toronto police for assistance.

There were approximately 15 people on the bus, and no injuries or accidents were reported.

The driver has been a GO bus operator since 1989.

Metrolinx CEO Phil Verster thanked the rider for saying something about the bus driver.

“Our drivers are extremely dedicated, responsible and trustworthy employees,” he said in a news release. “This is a rare and very disappointing occurrence and we want to assure our customers that this type of behaviour will not be tolerated.”

Metrolinx said a full investigation is underway.

Metrolinx spokesperson Anne Marie Aikins said it’s the second time this has happened at GO Transit. In 2017, a GO bus driver in Mississauga was charged with impaired driving.

The transit agency introduced a new fitness for duty policy in September 2018. It introduced drug and alcohol testing for “safety sensitive employees”— including bus drivers — where a post-incident investigation warrants testing, or where there is reasonable concern to believe an employee has been using drugs or alcohol.

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Sherina Harris is a breaking news reporter, working out of the Star's radio room in Toronto. Follow her on Twitter: @sherinaharris

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