Montreal Metro, Bus Services Hit by Second Maintenance Strike, Truck Drivers Protest

Montreal's Société de transport de Montréal (STM) is experiencing a second maintenance workers' strike this year, affecting bus and Metro service on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays until October 5. Approximately 2,400 maintenance employees are refusing to work overtime outside rush hours, disrupting transit availability and complicating commuting plans. The strike centers on disputes over wages and subcontractor use, with the union demanding a 25% wage increase over five years, while STM offers 12.5%. This action coincides with a truck drivers' protest across Quebec, where drivers are demonstrating against unlicensed operators on roads, further aggravating traffic congestion. STM management has improved communication since the previous strike in June, providing detailed service schedules and increased staff support at stations. Negotiations involving four unions continue, with the largest union poised to escalate pressure tactics, possibly leading to an unlimited general strike.