In the middle of summer, the union representing 230 blue-collar workers at Jean-Drapeau Park could call a strike after union members voted 100% in favour of escalating pressure tactics, up to and including a general strike, at their July 16 union meeting.
“Our members have been working without a contract since December 2023. That’s a long time! We have not had any wage increases, while inflation hasn’t stopped going up. We maintain this landmark park with pride and hard work, but we can’t do it any more without a contract,” said Nicolas De Ciccio, president of the Syndicat des cols bleus regroupés de Montréal (CUPE 301).
Blue-collar workers are essential employees. They take care of the park that receives millions of visitors who take part in different festivals (Osheaga and Lasso, for example), the Formula 1 Grand Prix, Mosaicultures, international sporting events, as well as the iconic Biosphere, among others.
“Our members are proud of their work and want to be respected and recognized for their contribution so they can continue to offer quality and essential services to the local community and tourists,” said the union representative in closing.