STM drivers confirm strike on Nov. 15 and 16

A bus passes in front of the Frontenac Transport Centre of the Société de transport de Montréal (STM) in Montreal on Monday, Sept. 22, 2025. (Christinne Muschi/The Canadian Press)

The union representing 4,500 bus drivers and Metro operators at the Société de transport de Montréal (STM) has confirmed its strike action for Nov. 15 and 16.

The local branch of the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE), affiliated with the Fédération des travailleurs et travailleuses du Québec (FTQ), has already walked off the job on Nov. 1.

• READ MORE: New Montreal mayor gives deadline to end transit strike as employers ask minister to intervene

On that day, a Saturday, there was no Metro or bus service.

With confirmation of a second strike, the Administrative Labour Tribunal Board will now have to rule on whether any essential services need to be maintained.

The STM has indicated that, unlike on Nov. 1, no agreement has been reached with the union on essential services for Nov. 15 and 16.

The transport company says it is sending a message to all organizations that could be affected by the strike, asking them to present their views to the tribunal.

It points out that the tribunal must base its decisions on the criteria of public health and safety.

• READ MORE: STM strike: Union asks Montreal’s new mayor to get involved

The potential strike is in addition to another by 2,400 maintenance employees, which has been ongoing since Oct. 31, and is set to last until Nov. 28.

Essential services are being provided during rush hour.

– This report by The Canadian Press was first published in French on Nov. 6, 2025.