In the spring of 1967, the 9000 CUPE members employed by Hydro-Québec began a six-week rotating strike, which, at the time, was a major innovation and the first of its kind in North America. The tactic paid off, as it prevented the employer, who was expecting a general strike, from resorting to back-to-work legislation, and enabled technicians, office employees and tradespersons to make major gains.
The two-year collective agreement eventually signed called for substantial wage hikes, more paid leave, a more equitable grievance procedure and a new job evaluation process.
Journal, CUPE, June 1967, p.1
Journal, CUPE, July-August 1967, p.1