Municipal workers in Kirkland, QC on 48-hour strike

Today outside workers in Kirkland, QC, just outside of Montreal, launched a 48-hour strike, slated from Wednesday, March 4, at 12:01 a.m. to Thursday, March 5, at 11:59 p.m., to protest a year-long stalemate in bargaining.

"Our members are proud to serve Kirkland residents, but they cannot put up with their growing impoverishment or the disrespect for the essential contributions they make," said Jean-Pierre Lauzon, the president of CUPE 301. "This strike sends a strong message to the city: it's time to bargain in good faith and come to a collective agreement that's fair."

Among the main issues of the conflict:

• Low wages: The salaries of outside workers in Kirkland are significantly lower than the average wages in surrounding West Island municipalities, despite runaway inflation and the rising cost of living that are shrinking workers' purchasing power.
• Unsuitable scheduling: Employees are asking for adjustments that would improve their work-life balance, a key to keeping the workforce motivated and efficient.
• Bargaining stalled by the employer: The city cancelled several sessions last fall and then falsely requested mediation, derailing any significant progress in coming to a fair agreement.

"Some essential services will be maintained to ensure public safety," Lauzon concluded. "The union regrets any inconvenience to Kirkland residents, who depend day in and day out on our essential workers for the smooth functioning of the community."