Montreal residents dependent on the city’s public transport system are still facing disruptions due to the ongoing strike by maintenance workers. Out of the 14 scheduled strike days, six will witness reduced public transit services catering to essential needs, particularly during peak hours from September 22 to October 5. This marks the second day of limited services following the launch of the strike early on Monday.
Katherine Roux-Groleau, a representative of STM, expressed the agency’s dedication to finding a resolution to avoid the strike. She emphasized the importance of reaching an agreement considering STM’s continuous operation and financial constraints, focusing on delivering safe and dependable bus and Metro services with adequate staffing.
Riders are advised to utilize STM’s website for trip planning, utilize active transportation options, and adjust work hours where feasible. Roux-Groleau acknowledged the significant impact of the strike on customers and assured efforts to minimize this impact.
Presently, negotiations are ongoing between four unions and STM for the renewal of employment contracts. The largest union, representing bus drivers and Metro operators with 4,600 members, is authorized to employ pressure tactics, including a potential unlimited general strike.
The strike’s effect on service hours has been determined by Quebec’s labor tribunal, limiting service to morning and evening rush hours and late-night hours on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. Regular schedules will be maintained on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays. The Metro service will operate during specific time blocks, with gradual station closures after the last train departs.
Bus services will be available during specified windows, ensuring completion of routes for passengers. Additionally, adapted transport services will continue uninterrupted. Maintenance workers, who previously went on strike in June, issued a new strike notice on September 5, affecting service delivery.
STM explains that service outside peak hours is infeasible without maintenance crews responsible for vehicle inspections, cleaning, emergency repairs, and equipment maintenance. The agency suggests alternatives during the strike, including Bixi, walking, car-sharing services, taxis, and ride-hailing services.
Various mobility services, such as Bixi and Leo Carshare, are offering enhanced services and discounts to support commuters during the strike period. Turo is providing promotional codes for car-sharing to mitigate transit challenges. The transit authority will not refund monthly or weekly passes, emphasizing the importance of monthly passes for continued essential services.
Despite the strike, fares for single rides and group fares retain the 120-minute transfer window policy. The STM website provides additional information on the strike for commuters.
