Municipal employees demonstrate in front of Montreal's city hall Wednesday (November 26) during a day of protest against proposed changes to their pension plans and those of city employees throughout the province of Quebec.
Photo Credit: Ryan Remiorz/CP

Municipal employees strike over pension plan changes in province of Quebec

Municipal services across the Canadian province of Quebec were disrupted on Wednesday (November 26) as government employees walked out on a one day strike to protest the provincial government’s intention to change their pension plans.

At the port of Montreal, firefighters blocked entry to the port, some subway stations had gates wide open allowing transit users to ride for free.

“We are one week from having this piece of legislation adopted, so we wanted to show we won’t stop the battle,” said union coalition spokesman Marc Ranger.

“Today’s the start of a new kind of mobilization for our membership. We’re sending the message that yes, the government has the power to put forth this legislation. But we have a power.”

Quebec Premier Philippe Couillard said the demonstration would not stop his government from proceeding with the bill.

The government wants to make the province’s city employees pay more into their pension funds.

On Saturday (November 29) massive support rallies are planned across the province with the theme “Refusons l’austérité!” (Refuse austerity!).

More information:
CBC News – Quebec municipal workers in 1-day strike to protest pension reform plan – here
National Post – ‘Le Grand Dérangement’: Quebec municipal workers go on one-day strike to protest pension reform laws – here
CBC News – Quebec aims to reform pension plans of municipal workers – here
Refusons l’austérité! website (in French) – refusons.org

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Categories: Economy, Politics
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