It’s Day 3 of the STM maintenance workers’ strike, and Montreal commuters are facing limited bus and metro services until Nov. 28.
The walkout by the Syndicat du transport de Montréal–CSN began Saturday alongside a one-day strike by bus and metro operators and station agents (CUPE 1983) – which saw the entire public transit system shut down for 24 hours.
The maintenance workers’ strike is expected to continue for four weeks if no agreement is reached.
The union, which represents about 2,400 maintenance employees, including mechanics and bus and metro service staff, held a press conference Monday morning to update the public on negotiations.
Negotiations stalled
Union leaders say they have made repeated efforts to move discussions forward but accuse STM management of maintaining a rigid position, particularly on subcontracting and wage increases.
The Syndicat du transport de Montréal–CSN, affiliated with the Fédération des employées et employés de services publics (FEESP–CSN) and the Conseil central du Montréal métropolitain (CCMM–CSN), says it will continue to press for improved working conditions and long-term job security.
Service disruptions
Montreal’s transit network saw major interruptions over the weekend and continues to operate on a restricted schedule.
- Oct. 31: Regular service operated until the end of the day.
- Nov. 1: A one-day strike by bus drivers, metro operators, and station agents (CUPE 1983) shut down all bus and metro service.
- Nov. 2–28: Maintenance workers’ strike continues, resulting in reduced service across the system all week, including weekends.
Adapted transport service remains available.
A sign reading “Please be patient, opening soon” is seen at the metro turnstiles at Peel station in Montreal during strike hours. The STM transit strike runs from Nov. 1 to 28, disrupting regular bus and metro service across the city. (Adriana Gentile, CityNews)
The metro now opens daily at 6:30 a.m., with no train service or station access before that time. Metro service is limited to:
- 6:30 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.
- 2:45 p.m. – 5:45 p.m.
- 11 p.m. until regular closing time
Stations close progressively after the last train passes each night.
A “Strike in progress” notice at Langelier Metro station in Montreal during strike hours. The STM transit strike runs from Nov. 1 to 28, disrupting regular bus and metro service across the city. (Adriana Gentile, CityNews)
Frustration among commuters
The disruptions have left many Montrealers frustrated and struggling to adjust their routines. Reduced metro hours and long waits for buses are adding to travel times across the city.
A transit user tries to open a closed door at Peel Metro station in Montreal during strike hours. The STM transit strike runs from Nov. 1 to 28, disrupting regular bus and metro service across the city. (Adriana Gentile, CityNews)
CUPE operators threaten further action
Bus drivers and metro operators represented by CUPE Local 1983 have warned they may strike again on Nov. 15 and 16 if no progress is made at the negotiating table.
The union has said such action is intended to put pressure on the government and STM management to address funding and service quality issues.
A sign for bus drivers and metro operators represented by CUPE Local 1983 strike is displayed at Peel Metro station in Montreal. (Adriana Gentile, CityNews)
What’s next
Unless a deal is reached, the reduced service schedule is set to remain in effect until Nov. 28.
