The union representing maintenance workers at STM, Montreal’s public transportation system, is set to go on strike every day throughout November, including on the day of the city’s municipal election on November 2. During the strike, only essential services will be provided during peak hours.
Affiliated with the CSN, the union represents 2,400 maintenance employees at the Société de transport de Montréal (STM). They have announced a third strike, starting on October 31 at 10 p.m. and ending on November 28 at 10 p.m.
The Administrative Labour Tribunal (TAT) held a hearing on the matter where both sides presented their arguments. It was agreed that essential services would be provided during the strike days, with an exception for the municipal election day on November 2.
The STM has requested an extension of the essential service hours on election day to allow for easier access to polling stations. Currently, the polling stations are open from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., which the union feels may restrict citizens’ ability to vote using public transport.
The union is against extending the essential service hours on election day, citing alternative modes of transportation such as Bixi bikes, carpooling, walking, or driving as viable options for voters. Additionally, the union highlighted that citizens could have voted in advance.
Administrative Judge François Beaubien is reviewing the case and will make a decision soon.
