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STM Maintenance Strike Paused as Drivers’ Weekend Walkout Threatens Full Shutdown

Quebec is moving to fast-track Law 14 to curb disruptive pressure tactics by enabling intervention in essential-service disputes.

Buses are parked outside the Societe de transport de Montreal (STM) Frontenac Transportation Centre in Montreal on Monday, Sept. 22, 2025. A transit strike by the maintenance workers is expected to limit service to morning and evening rush hours on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.
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Maintenance workers with the STM have been on strike since Oct. 31. Late Tuesday night, the union representing them announced it was suspending its month-long strike.
An Societe de transport de Montreal (STM) mechanic protests outside their facility in Montreal on Monday, September 22, 2025. A transit strike by the maintenance workers is expected to limit service to morning and evening rush hours on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Christinne Muschi

Overview

  • The union for 2,400 maintenance workers suspended its month-long strike at 6 a.m. Wednesday, with the STM saying service would resume gradually as talks continue and no agreement yet in place.
  • The labour tribunal authorized a strike by 4,500 bus drivers and Metro operators from 4 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 15, to 3:59 a.m. Monday, Nov. 17, which would halt bus and Metro service unless a deal is reached.
  • Labour Minister Jean Boulet tabled a bill to apply Law 14 ahead of its Nov. 30 start date, granting the government broader power to intervene when disputes harm the public’s well-being.
  • Passage of the fast-track measure faces resistance, with Quebec solidaire withholding support and Premier François Legault saying he will not force the bill through using closure.
  • Negotiations focus on wages and outsourcing, the STM says salary demands exceed its ability to pay, and unions argue the government’s move to accelerate Law 14 undercuts bargaining incentives.