Both parties engaged in discussions on Thursday in an effort to avert a potential bus drivers’ strike slated for Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday next week within the public transit system on Montreal’s South Shore.
Additional meetings are scheduled in the interim, allowing room for more dialogue between the Réseau de transport de Longueuil (RTL) and the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE), linked with the FTQ and representing the 714 bus drivers.
During Wednesday’s proceedings, both sides presented their arguments to the Administrative Labour Tribunal regarding the essential services to be maintained should the strike proceed next Tuesday.
The Tribunal is expected to deliver its verdict imminently, with a primary focus on ensuring that public health and safety remain uncompromised during any labor disputes.
Union members overwhelming voted in favor of taking action, with 99.03% supporting measures such as a strike.
Background:
The collective agreement lapsed on December 31. Over 40 negotiation sessions have taken place between the involved parties.
Union president Marc Gingras acknowledged progress in settling various clauses during negotiations but cited a “deadlock” concerning wage matters with RTL. He emphasized a stance against concessions that could negatively impact members’ financial well-being.
RTL management, when questioned about the wage dispute, declined to provide comments, citing a commitment to preserving the integrity of the ongoing negotiation process.
RTL is ranked as the third-largest public transit entity in Quebec, extending its services to areas like Longueuil, Saint-Hubert, Greenfield Park, Boucherville, Brossard, Saint-Lambert, and Saint-Bruno-de-Montarville, with operations spanning 152 bus routes.
