Fully 94% of the 130 members of CUPE 4115, which represents transit workers in Trois-Rivières, voted at a general meeting yesterday evening to use pressure tactics up to and including a strike. Their seven-year contract expired on December 31, 2024.
“The city has pushed us to this point,” said local president Donald Simard. “A year and a half ago, the city said our wages were too low and asked us to review them before the contract expired. Then, it changed its mind. As of today, after six bargaining sessions, it has still not tabled its wage offers. The city does not keep its word, and it’s hard to negotiate in these circumstances.”
CUPE 4115 blames the city for dragging out the negotiations. The local hopes last night’s strike mandate applies the pressure needed to quickly reach a mutually satisfactory agreement.
“We are ready to settle this,” said Simard. “Public transit is crucial in 2025, and Trois-Rivières residents deserve smooth and efficient service.”