At 6:30am this morning, Ville de Montréal outside workers gathered for a protest organized by the Syndicat des cols bleus regroupés de Montréal (CUPE 301). Protesters first gathered at the corner of Dickson and Souligny streets, then moved in front of the Ville de Montréal’s administrative offices on Saint‑Denis Street. They denounced the toxic environment the employer has created at the bargaining table, which is stalling progress and eroding trust between the parties.
“There’s a disconnect between the political rhetoric we’re hearing and what’s actually happening,” explained CUPE 301 President Jean-Pierre Lauzon. “Elected officials talk about working together to reach an agreement quickly, but the tone is quite different at the bargaining table. We’re getting new demands now, after over a year of talks, and that’s frustrating. We can’t bargain under these conditions.”
As the bargaining climate continues to deteriorate, CUPE 301 is announcing it will escalate pressure tactics to send a clear message and push towards a negotiated agreement. A demonstration will be held next week.
“Today, we’re firmly saying that as long as the city doesn’t change its approach at the bargaining table, the pressure will continue to rise,” Lauzon added. “A demonstration is planned for next week and, if need be, a strike will follow.”
Last September, CUPE 301 members voted 98% in favour of pressure tactics up to an unlimited general strike.
The collective agreement with the Ville de Montréal’s outside workers expired on December 31, 2024. The parties have held more than 21 bargaining and 8 mediation sessions.