The labor union representing maintenance staff at Montreal’s transit authority is planning to stage multiple strikes throughout November, including on the day of the municipal elections. The Syndicat du transport de Montréal, representing 2,400 maintenance workers at the Société de transport de Montréal (STM), has announced a third strike starting on October 31 at 10 p.m. and ending on November 28 at 10 p.m.
During a hearing at the labor tribunal, both parties agreed to provide essential services during the strike, except on election day, November 2. The STM has requested to extend essential service hours on election day by two hours to facilitate voter transportation, as polling stations are open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. The union opposes this extension, suggesting alternative transportation options such as Bixi bikes, car-sharing, walking, or driving, along with advance voting opportunities.
The tribunal judge, François Beaubien, is deliberating on the matter. Additionally, the STM has informed that the drivers’ union, Syndicat des chauffeurs, opérateurs et employés des services connexes (SCFP 1983), has also issued a strike notice affecting bus and Metro services on November 1, 15, and 16. Discussions are ongoing to determine the level of essential services during these potential strikes, ensuring paratransit remains operational and maintaining service levels on election day.
Amidst the labor disputes, the STM has disclosed its need to reduce costs by cutting 300 positions to achieve $100 million in savings over three years. The maintenance workers’ union remains hopeful for a resolution to avoid the planned four-week strike, having previously gone on strike twice this year, causing disruptions to public transport services in Montreal.
SCFP Local 1983 has expressed its demands for improved working conditions and the end of unpaid work, emphasizing that adapted transportation services will be upheld in the event of a strike. The STM has stated its commitment to addressing the union’s demands while considering the organization’s financial constraints and the necessity for flexibility and efficiency.