stm strike

Montreal’s STM Strike: What You Need to Know About the Month-Long Transit Disruption

Montreal is bracing for a month-long STM strike that has already begun disrupting the daily commute of hundreds of thousands of residents. With reduced service in effect until November 28, the strike by maintenance workers and other transit staff is one of the most significant public transit disruptions the city has seen in years. From buses and métro shutdowns to overlapping strikes by drivers, this labor action is reshaping how Montrealers get around—and raising urgent questions about the future of public transit in Quebec’s largest city.

This article breaks down the verified facts, latest updates, historical context, and real-world impacts of the STM strike. Whether you're a daily commuter, a small business owner, or simply trying to navigate the city this November, here’s what you need to know.

What’s Happening Right Now: The Strike in Motion

The STM strike began on October 31 at 10 p.m., with a three-day walkout by bus drivers, metro operators, and station agents represented by the Syndicat des chauffeurs, opérateurs et agents de station (SCFP 1983). This strike, lasting November 1, 15, and 16, has already caused complete shutdowns of all STM services on those days.

But the bigger story is the ongoing strike by maintenance workers, represented by the Syndicat du transport de Montréal (STM Maintenance). This strike, which runs from November 2 to November 28, involves approximately 2,400 unionized workers responsible for keeping buses and metro trains running safely and on schedule.

“We’re not asking for the moon—just fair working conditions and respect for the vital work we do,” a union spokesperson told Montreal Gazette in a recent interview.

As of November 3, the strike has entered its third day, with no end in sight. According to CTV News, reduced service is in effect until November 28, meaning only essential services during rush hours (7–9 a.m. and 4–6 p.m.) will be maintained. Outside those windows, most bus routes and metro lines are suspended or severely limited.

This means: - No full metro or bus service on most days. - Limited shuttle buses on key corridors like the Orange Line. - No weekend service outside rush hour windows. - No service on municipal election day (November 2)—a decision upheld by the Administrative Labour Tribunal.

“The tribunal dismissed STM’s request to maintain full service on election day,” reported CityNews Montreal. “The union argued that the strike should not be paused for political reasons.”

Recent Updates: A Timeline of Key Developments

Here’s a chronological breakdown of the most critical developments, based on verified news reports:

October 31, 2025

• 10 p.m.: Maintenance workers begin their strike, halting most preventive maintenance and repairs.
• Evening: STM issues emergency schedules, warning of reduced service starting November 2.

November 1, 2025

• First day of full strike by bus drivers and metro operators.
• All STM services suspended—no buses, no metro, no STM-run shuttles.
• CityNews Montreal reports “chaos at major hubs like Berri-UQAM and Lionel-Groulx as commuters scramble for alternatives.”

November 2, 2025

• Maintenance strike enters public phase—limited service begins.
• Municipal elections held with no STM service outside rush hours.
• Administrative Labour Tribunal rules that the strike can continue during the election, rejecting STM’s appeal.

November 3, 2025

• First full weekday of reduced service.
• Commuters report commutes up to 2 hours longer than usual.
• Montreal Gazette notes: “Union vows to dig in as Montreal’s buses and métro grind to a halt.”

November 4–28 (Ongoing)

• Reduced service continues with only essential operations during peak hours.
• Additional strike days (Nov. 15–16) by drivers and operators expected to cause complete shutdowns again.

“This isn’t just a strike—it’s a full-scale disruption of urban life,” said one commuter interviewed by CTV News.

Why Are Workers Striking? The Context Behind the Action

To understand the STM strike, it helps to look at the bigger picture of labor relations in Quebec’s public sector.

Who Are the Workers Involved?

• Maintenance workers (2,400+): Responsible for repairing buses, metro trains, signals, and infrastructure. Their work is essential to safety and reliability.
• Drivers and station agents (1,800+): Operate buses, trains, and assist passengers. Their strike days are separate but overlapping.

These unions have been in contract negotiations with STM since early 2025, with key sticking points including: - Wage increases (workers seek a 12% raise over three years) - Work-life balance (reducing mandatory overtime and night shifts) - Job security (concerns about automation and outsourcing) - Pension and benefits improvements

“We’ve been underpaid and overworked for years,” said a maintenance worker who asked not to be named. “This strike is about dignity, not just dollars.”

A History of Transit Labor Tensions

Montreal has a long history of transit strikes. Notable examples include: - 1990 STM strike: Lasted 25 days, shut down the city. - 2007–2008 strikes: Multiple walkouts over wages and working conditions. - 2023–2024 negotiations: Failed talks led to this year’s strike threat.

This time, however, the scale and duration are unprecedented. A 28-day strike—nearly the entire month of November—is rare and reflects deep frustration among workers.

The Role of the Administrative Labour Tribunal

Quebec’s Administrative Labour Tribunal plays a key role in public sector disputes. It can order essential services during strikes, especially for critical infrastructure like transit.

But in this case, the tribunal ruled in favor of the union, allowing the strike to continue—even on municipal election day. This decision underscores the legal strength of the workers’ position and the limited power of STM to force a resolution.

Immediate Effects: How the Strike Is Changing Montreal

The STM strike is having far-reaching consequences across the city.

For Commuters

• Average commute times have doubled or tripled.
• Bike lanes and bike-sharing (BIXI) are seeing record usage.
• Rideshare apps (Uber, Lyft) and taxis are in high demand, leading to surge pricing.
• Remote work surges, with many companies offering flexibility.

“I used to get to work in 25 minutes. Now it takes 90,” said a downtown office worker. “I’m considering moving closer or quitting my job.”

For Businesses

• Retailers in downtown and transit hubs report 30–50% drops in foot traffic.
• Restaurants and cafes near metro stations are struggling.
• Small businesses are offering delivery and pickup incentives to retain customers.

“We’re losing money every day,” said a café owner near McGill station. “People aren’t coming in because they can’t get here.”

For the City

• Traffic congestion has increased by an estimated 15–20%.
• Air quality concerns are rising due to more car use.
• Emergency services are rerouting to avoid transit corridors.
• Municipal election turnout may be affected by lack of transit access.

For Students and Seniors

• University students are missing classes or switching to online.
• Seniors and people with disabilities face mobility challenges, with limited accessible alternatives.

“This strike is hitting the most vulnerable the hardest,” said a spokesperson for a senior advocacy group.

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