As anyone launching a rebrand knows, it’s usually a good idea to pay attention to the small details — especially when it comes to names and acronyms. Apparently, no one passed that memo to the TTC.
On Friday, the Toronto transit agency announced that, starting Sunday, fare inspectors will now be referred to as Provincial Offences Officers.
As part of the rollout, these staff members will wear new uniforms — grey shirts and vests bearing their new name — and will continue to verify proof of payment. Riders caught without valid fare can expect fines ranging from $235 to $425.
The change comes after a 2023 audit revealed the TTC loses up to $140 million annually due to fare evasion.
However, while the transit commission hoped to bring attention to fare enforcement, what caught the internet’s attention wasn’t the fines or uniforms, but the acronym: POO.
After the TTC shared the news on X (formerly Twitter), replies were quick to highlight the unfortunate oversight.
“POO?” several users asked. The TTC, evidently trying to keep things professional, replied: “Hi there, it stands for provincial offences officers.”
Another user quipped, “Much credit for interacting here! And realize not your department, but the POO acronym [is] probably worth a 2nd look.”
Not yet ready to admit they’d stepped in it, the TTC’s admin gamely responded, “I’ll be sure to send your feedback to management.”
But by Monday, the frustration had clearly gotten to them.
After one user posted a photo of three POO patrollers in their new uniforms, asking if anyone at the TTC had made the connection, the transit agency’s social media team finally clapped back.
“Yes, Matt. We were kids once, too,” they replied. “The acronym was thought through, but the designation was not ours to begin with. It existed in Ontario legislation long before the TTC began using it this weekend.”
“We thank the snickering, puerile 12-year-old boys who dominate the internet for their insights,” they went on.
“However, it does not negate the fact that fare cheats face fines of hundreds of dollars — which is no laughing matter.”
Ouch.
Over on Reddit, a post in r/toronto drew more than 200 comments roasting the new title.
“(Leaning into the mic) Fare inspectors are POOs now,” joked one top commenter.
“Who’s gonna tell ’em?” wondered another.
One person asked, “Can I get around the ticket if I bring my own stool?”
“Run! The POO POO are after you!” another joked.
All jokes aside, TTC officials say riders can expect more fare checks in the future.
So, don’t forget to tap your card — otherwise, you might end up with a smelly ticket.
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