Workers represented by the ATU 1557 union at the Société de transport de l’Outaouais (STO) are set to go on strike next week citing concerns over wages and job stability. The union, which includes mechanic supervisors and trainers at the Gatineau, Quebec transit agency, announced their intention to commence the strike on Monday, October 20, during a press briefing held on Tuesday.
Olivier Lachance, the president of ATU 1557, stated that the potential strike action could disrupt transit services and lead to service disruptions. He highlighted that union members receive salaries that are 20 to 25 percent lower compared to counterparts in similar positions in Quebec and Ottawa.
The STO informed Radio-Canada that they will address the situation in a press conference scheduled for Wednesday morning. The union and STO have not reached a collective agreement since the conclusion of 2022.