Potential Labor Action Looming over STM come Fall
Montreal's public transportation system, operated by the Société de transport de Montréal (STM), is facing a potential crisis as negotiations between the union of maintenance employees, Syndicat du transport de Montréal-CSN, and the STM remain stalled. The collective agreement expired in January 2025, and since then, the parties have held nine mediation sessions, but progress has been slow.
The union, led by President Bruno Jeannotte, accuses the STM of stalling negotiations and is frustrated by the lack of progress. The union is seeking to limit subcontracting and maintain in-house control over maintenance tasks to preserve job security and quality. Changes to work schedules are also a point of contention. The union has signalled that they may issue strike notices to the labour tribunal by August, which could lead to renewed strike action this fall, potentially coinciding with the start of the school year in Montreal.
The STM, however, maintains that negotiations are "moving in the right direction" since the mediator's involvement and emphasizes the need for confidentiality in the process. The employer has not yet presented its list of key priorities, a fact that the union finds concerning.
If there is no significant progress by August, the impact could be substantial. The prospect of a maintenance worker strike raises the risk of service disruptions, delays, and reduced bus availability, directly impacting students, parents, and school staff who depend on public transportation. The union's next steps will be determined by the progress—or lack thereof—in negotiations over the coming weeks.
The STM has offered a 11% salary increase over five years, while the union is asking for a 25% salary increase over the same period. The union has also criticised the lack of availability of the lawyer representing the STM at the negotiation table.
Two other unions at the STM, the Union of Bus Drivers and Metro Operators (SCFP 1983) and the Union representing administrative staff (SCFP 2850), have obtained mandates from their members to trigger pressure tactics that could lead to a strike. The last strike, which took place from June 9 to 17, did not allow for any progress for the unions.
As the situation remains tense, with a real possibility of strike action affecting Montreal’s public transit system at the start of the school year, both sides express frustration. The coming weeks will be critical in determining whether a strike can be averted. The upcoming school year could potentially be challenging for users of public transportation in Montreal.
In light of the union's intention to issue strike notices by August, there is a rising concern about the potential impact on the transportation industry, particularly Montreal's public transportation system. The STM's ongoing negotiations with the union, Syndicat du transport de Montréal-CSN, regarding work schedules, subcontracting, and a significant salary increase, could directly affect the finance sector, as a strike might lead to service disruptions and financial losses. The future of Montreal's transportation system is currently uncertain, with both parties expressing dissatisfaction and the critical weeks ahead possibly determining the resolution of this crisis.
