200 Protesters Rally in Montreal as Air Canada Flights Halt

UPDATE: A significant protest erupted in downtown Montreal as 200 demonstrators rallied in support of Air Canada flight attendants, who are grounded despite a federal back-to-work order. As travelers face ongoing flight disruptions, Air Canada has announced the suspension of all flights through Tuesday afternoon, further complicating travel plans for many.

The protest began at Phoenix Square and marched to Air Canada’s headquarters at Square Victoria. Uniting multiple unions under the banner of the Workers’ Alliance, the crowd voiced their support for the flight attendants, who have defied Prime Minister Mark Carney’s order to return to work.

“This illegal strike is necessary—it’s the beginning of something,” declared Emma Dowson, a representative of the Workers’ Alliance Montreal. “[Premier Francois] Legault and Carney think they can break our leverage with laws and decrees, but power doesn’t come from the Code. It comes from people, from anger. And what they’re witnessing now is just a taste of what awaits them if they keep pushing.”

The tensions stem from reports that flight attendants face “unacceptable conditions,” including a starting wage of just $1,952 gross per month and numerous hours of unpaid work. Philippe Soucy, President of the Syndicat des professionnelles et professionnels du Cégep de Saint-Laurent (CSN), joined the protest, emphasizing solidarity among workers: “Flight attendants are being repressed for simply demanding better living conditions. We are here, at their side, whatever our trade. This moment is historic, and it is our duty, as workers and union members, to fight alongside them.”

As the situation unfolds, Air Canada’s CEO expressed hopes for resuming services as early as Tuesday, but the company’s future actions remain uncertain amidst rising tensions. The gathering highlights the broader struggle for labor rights and better working conditions in an increasingly challenging economic climate.

Authorities are closely monitoring the situation as both sides prepare for potential escalation. Travelers are urged to stay informed as developments continue to unfold. This protest serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by workers in the airline industry, and the fight for fair treatment is far from over.

Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.