Montreal blue-collar workers have announced plans to create work disruptions during the city’s upcoming cycling championships, according to a statement released on Saturday evening. The announcement follows the expiration of their collective bargaining agreement with the City of Montreal on December 31, 2024, a deadline that has left the workforce without a current contract.
The workers, representing various municipal trades, say the lack of a renewed agreement has prompted them to organize actions aimed at drawing attention to their negotiating position. By targeting the high‑profile cycling championships, they hope to highlight the impact of the stalled talks on essential city services.
City officials have acknowledged the planned disruptions but have not detailed specific measures that may be affected. The timing of the workers’ decision coincides with the final preparations for the championships, an event expected to draw significant local and international attention. While the exact nature of the disruptions has not been disclosed, the workers’ coordination suggests a coordinated effort across multiple service areas.
The expiration of the collective bargaining agreement at the end of 2024 marked the start of a prolonged period without a formal contract. Over the intervening years, negotiations have not produced a new agreement, leading the workforce to consider alternative tactics to press for a settlement. The upcoming championships provide a backdrop that the workers believe will amplify their concerns to both municipal leaders and the public.
As the city prepares for the sporting event, municipal authorities are expected to monitor the situation closely. Both parties have indicated a willingness to continue discussions, though no timeline for a potential agreement has been announced. The planned disruptions underscore the broader challenges faced by municipal workers in Montreal as they seek a resolution to a contract that has been pending for more than a year.