Quebec's labour tribunal has ruled that the companies operating the Réseau express métropolitain (REM) are not required to maintain essential services during a strike, a decision that could lead to a complete shutdown of the automated light-rail network serving the Montreal area.
Tribunal's Decision
The Tribunal administratif du travail issued the ruling on Friday, rejecting arguments from the REM operators that they must continue providing a minimum level of service to the public. The tribunal stated that the REM does not meet the legal criteria for essential services, as its operations are not vital to public health or safety.
The decision stems from a request by the union representing REM employees, who are currently in contract negotiations. The union had argued that the employer's demand for essential services during a strike was an unfair bargaining tactic.
Potential Impact on Commuters
The REM, which began partial service in 2023 and fully opened its West Island line in May 2026, carries tens of thousands of passengers daily. A strike could severely disrupt commutes for residents of Montreal's South Shore, West Island, and other areas served by the network.
According to the REM's operator, CDPQ Infra, the network transported over 40 million passengers in the past year. The company stated that a work stoppage would cause significant inconvenience to users and urged both parties to reach an agreement.
"We are disappointed with the tribunal's decision," said a CDPQ Infra spokesperson. "We believe that maintaining a minimum level of service is essential for the thousands of people who rely on the REM every day."
Union Reaction
The union representing REM workers, the Syndicat des employés du REM, welcomed the ruling. Union president Marie-Claude Bélanger said, "This decision confirms that the REM is not an essential service and that workers have the right to strike without being forced to provide services that could undermine their bargaining power."
Bélanger added that the union remains open to negotiations but will not accept any conditions that limit its members' right to strike.
Background of the Labour Dispute
The labour dispute began earlier this year when the union and management failed to agree on a new collective agreement. Key issues include wages, working conditions, and job security. The union has been seeking a 15% wage increase over three years, while management has offered 10%.
The REM is one of Montreal's largest infrastructure projects, with a total investment of over $7 billion. It is designed to eventually connect downtown Montreal with the South Shore, West Island, and the airport.
What's Next
Both parties are scheduled to resume negotiations next week. If no agreement is reached, the union could call a strike vote within the coming weeks. A strike would require a mandate from a majority of union members.
Transportation authorities have already begun preparing contingency plans, including increased bus service and shuttle options, to mitigate the impact of a potential REM shutdown.
