Bus drivers and metro operators at Montreal’s transit agency, the Société de transport de Montréal (STM), are weighing the possibility of going on strike — following in the footsteps of the agency’s maintenance workers. The union representing them, a local of the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) affiliated with the FTQ, has launched a billboard campaign reading: “Buses and metros soon to strike. Thank you, STM.” When contacted, the union said no strike notice has been issued and no date has been set for possible action. Talks with the STM were continuing Tuesday afternoon. Still, tensions appear to be escalating. The CUPE local, known for its moderate stance, has not called a strike in nearly 40 years. If a walkout occurs, it would be subject to essential services requirements. The union would need to submit a list of services to maintain during the strike and attempt to reach an agreement with the STM. Whether or not an agreement is reached, the Administrative Labour Tribunal would ultimately decide if the essential services plan adequately protects public health and safety, taking into account the strike’s context and duration. The CUPE local represents about 4,500 bus drivers and metro operators, the STM’s largest bargaining unit. The transit agency serves roughly 1.1 million passengers daily. Earlier this year, the STM’s maintenance workers, represented by a CSN-affiliated union, held two strikes: from June 9 to 17, and again from Sept. 22 to Oct. 5. In response to that dispute, Quebec Labour Minister Jean Boulet appointed a team of four conciliator-mediators on Oct. 3 to help resolve the impasse. He also urged both sides to stop negotiating through the media and focus on mediation, which remains ongoing. This report by The Canadian Press was first published in French on Oct. 14, 2025. By Lia Lévesque, The Canadian Press
