In a recent development, the union representing maintenance workers at the Société de transport de Montréal (STM) has announced the suspension of their strike starting from 6 a.m. on November 12. This decision comes amidst a series of strikes affecting Montreal commuters navigating the city and public transit schedules.
The ongoing month-long strike by maintenance workers, scheduled until November 28, has led to a reduction in bus and Metro services, operating only during rush hours every day of the week. Additionally, the union representing bus drivers, train operators, and station agents plans to strike on November 15 and 16, potentially causing a complete shutdown of the public transit system as seen on November 1.
The specifics of the upcoming strike days remain uncertain, as the STM and the union have not reached an agreement on essential services to be maintained. The Quebec labor tribunal is currently addressing this issue. Meanwhile, the provincial labor minister aims to expedite the implementation of a law granting the Quebec government the authority to send negotiating parties to arbitration.
Amidst the strikes, bus and Metro services in the city have been operating on limited schedules, with adapted transit running as usual. The adjusted bus schedules for November include service during peak hours in the morning, afternoon, and late night, while Metro service is available during specified hours throughout the day and evening.
Furthermore, the union representing administrative workers at STM plans to strike on November 19, joining the ongoing labor actions. Negotiations with the STM have been ongoing for 17 months, focusing on job security, subcontracting, and wages. The union representing bus drivers, Metro operators, and station agents went on strike for the first time in 38 years on November 1.
The maintenance workers’ union has previously gone on strike twice this year, in June and September. Contentious issues in negotiations include wage increases and outsourcing, with the STM citing budget constraints as a limiting factor.
The recent temporary removal of articulated buses from service in October due to technical issues has led to overcrowding on some bus routes. The STM is replacing these buses with regular ones temporarily and anticipates their return to service soon.
For commuters affected by the transit disruptions, alternative transportation options include bike-sharing services like Bixis, car-sharing apps, and taxis. Bixi Montréal has expanded its service coverage and set up additional drop-off stations, while car-sharing companies like Communauto are working to maximize vehicle availability during the strike period.
Monthly STM passes can be refunded if requested before the start of the month, with the ARTM reporting a significant decline in pass sales for November compared to last year. Other modes of transportation such as carpooling and ride-sharing services like Uber are also being encouraged as ways to navigate the city during the transit strikes.