STO drivers, mechanics

Transit negotiations still stuck — after two years

As many stranded transit users have realized, negotiations between the STO and the union representing drivers and mechanics are far from over. On February 23, Gilles Carpentier, STO President, described the negotiations as at a stalemate.

“We have been negotiating in good faith with the goal of striking a deal, but not at any price. The union’s demands are unrealistic. It would be tempting for us to make them public, but out of respect for them and the established framework, we won’t. It is Gatineau citizens and transit users who will eventually foot the bill,” explained Carpentier. “The gap between both parties is wide.”

The drivers and mechanics union, Syndicat Uni du Transport, local 591, said in a statement that “following more than 20 meetings and a number of solutions proposed by the union, we can only conclude that the STO does not have any real intention to negotiate. In view of the impasse, the mediator asked both parties to confirm by March 2 whether they agree to proceed to the arbitration process.” Therefore, on March 1, union members were invited to take stock of the negotiations and the mediator's proposal concerning arbitration during a special meeting.

The same day the president provided his update, the union held a rally in front of the STO’s Hull offices. Since the beginning of the work-to-rule campaign initiated by the union in mid-January, roughly 3,000 bus trips have been cancelled, according to the STO.

The collective bargaining agreement expired on December 31, 2014, over two years without a contract.