The Tribunal administratif du travail (TAT) has confirmed that Montreal transport workers will go on strike for 28 days in November. This decision affects maintenance employees, leading to disruptions in metro and bus services. The strike is scheduled to commence at 10 PM on October 31 and will last until 10 PM on November 28.
Impact on Public Transportation
During the strike, metro and bus services will be limited outside of peak hours. Specifically:
- Metro Service:
- Operational from 6:30 AM to 9:30 AM
- Operational from 2:45 PM to 5:45 PM
- Operational from 11 PM until closing
- Bus Service:
- Operational from 6:15 AM to 9:15 AM
- Operational from 3 PM to 6 PM
- Operational from 11:15 PM to 1:15 AM
Adapted transit services will be maintained throughout the strike period.
Judicial Ruling
Judge François Beaubien, in his ruling, acknowledged the significant inconvenience this strike would pose to public transport users. However, he emphasized the fundamental right to strike, stating that any real threat to health or safety would need to be proven to restrict this right.
Negotiation and Future Meetings
As part of the ruling, the involved parties will convene weekly to assess the vehicle fleet status and address any necessary solutions to maintain service during designated hours.
Historical Context
This strike marks a significant escalation in pressure tactics from maintenance employees. Previous strikes in September and June were much shorter, with the last one spanning only six days. The current strike’s scale could severely affect user traffic, which already dropped to about 60% and 50% of normal levels during the last two strikes.
Additional Strikes on the Horizon
The maintenance workers’ strike is not the only labor action planned for November. Another audience is set before the TAT regarding the union of 4,500 bus drivers and metro operators, who are also contemplating a strike on November 1, 15, and 16. This could mark the first strike for this group in 38 years.
Recommendations for Commuters
In light of the upcoming strike, the Montreal public transit authority advises residents to plan their journeys carefully. Information about train schedules will be updated in real-time on their website to assist commuters.
