Montreal Avoids Transit Strike with Last-Minute Agreement

BREAKING: Montreal’s public transit network has averted a major strike just hours before it was set to begin, thanks to a last-minute agreement between the Société de transport de Montréal (STM) and its drivers’ union. The planned strike was slated to kick off early Saturday and continue through Monday, but officials announced a tentative deal late Friday, ensuring normal bus and metro operations for the weekend.

Transit users can breathe a sigh of relief as they will enjoy uninterrupted service throughout the city. The union, representing roughly 4,500 bus drivers, metro operators, and station agents, had raised concerns about deteriorating working conditions. Union head Frederic Therrien expressed satisfaction with the outcome, stating, “Our goal was to reach a negotiated agreement, and we have achieved it.” He emphasized that the final decision will rest with the union members, who will vote on the agreement through established democratic processes.

The STM is recognized as an essential service, meaning it must take steps to maintain operations during labor disputes to protect public health and safety. The company confirmed that discussions had taken place to determine necessary services during the conflict. The agreement was subsequently reviewed and approved by Quebec’s labour tribunal.

CEO Marie-Claude Léonard praised the collaboration that led to the agreement, which includes compromises from all sides. “This important milestone also means that we can avoid another strike and significant impacts on the public, as requested by Mayor Martinez Ferrada,” she stated in French.

However, the situation remains tense, as another union representing about 1,300 administrative, technical, and professional employees has announced plans for a two-day strike starting November 19. Quebec’s labour tribunal has mandated that at least 33 members must remain available to ensure essential services during this period.

Earlier this week, approximately 2,400 maintenance workers suspended their month-long strike, which had limited bus and subway schedules to peak hours and late evenings. Despite this, their union has indicated that a resolution is still some distance away.

As the details of the agreement emerge, the focus will shift to the union members, who will soon cast their votes on the proposed deal. This development marks a crucial moment in Montreal’s transit operations, ensuring that thousands of commuters can rely on public transport without disruption this weekend. Stay tuned for updates as this story unfolds.