On September 11, 2026, the Administrative Labour Tribunal issued a ruling that rejected the union’s allegation that the City of Montreal had acted in bad faith during collective‑bargaining talks. The tribunal’s decision favored the municipal government, concluding that the city’s conduct did not breach the standards required for good‑faith negotiations.
The dispute originated when the union filed a lawsuit against the city, claiming that the municipal authorities had employed improper tactics while negotiating a new collective agreement. The union argued that these tactics amounted to a breach of the duty to negotiate in good faith, a requirement that underpins collective‑bargaining relationships in Quebec.
In its judgment, the tribunal examined the evidence presented by both parties. It found that the city’s actions fell within the range of legitimate bargaining strategies and did not constitute the kind of conduct that would be deemed bad faith. Consequently, the tribunal dismissed the union’s claim and upheld the city’s position.
The decision brings an end to the legal challenge that had been pending between the union and the municipal administration. By ruling in favour of Montreal, the tribunal affirmed that the city’s negotiation process complied with the legal obligations governing collective bargaining. The outcome also clarifies the parameters for what constitutes bad‑faith behaviour in future labour disputes involving public employers in Quebec.
While the ruling resolves this particular case, it does not preclude the union from pursuing further negotiations with the city on substantive contract issues. Both parties are now expected to return to the bargaining table to address the remaining matters that prompted the original dispute.
The tribunal’s finding underscores the importance of adhering to established negotiation protocols and provides a reference point for other labour relations cases in the province.