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Montreal transit strike could be first test of new Quebec labour law
The strike by 2,400 workers aims to pressure the transit agency on wages and outsourcing before Quebec's new law allows binding arbitration to end disputes.
- Montreal transit agency's 2,400 maintenance workers began a strike from Oct. 31 to Nov. 28 to pressure a deal before the new labour law giving binding arbitration power takes effect on Nov. 30.
- Bargaining deadlock over pay and contracting has stalled talks over wage increases and outsourcing, with the union saying the transit agency delayed bargaining while workers struck twice this year.
- Legal and academic critics note four McGill University faculty associations filed a court challenge, arguing the law violates the right to strike, while Barry Eidlin warns it resembles Section 107 of the Canada Labour Code used last year to end strikes.
- Service disruptions have left bus and subway service limited to peak hours, causing serious harm to people who depend on public transit, while Quebec Labour Minister Jean Boulet urged quick resolution and Michelle Llambás Meunier said Montrealers are `being held hostage`.
- The law's vague definitions mean the new labour law expands required services to include well-being, but critics say employers may wait for ministry intervention, with the employers council calling for earlier implementation if talks fail soon.
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Total News Sources30
Leaning Left17Leaning Right1Center3Last UpdatedBias Distribution81% Left
Bias Distribution
- 81% of the sources lean Left
81% Left
L 81%
14%
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