Negotiations are getting tougher between the Quebec government and more than 400,000 state employees. An alliance of public sector unions are threatening to go on an indefinite general strike in early January if an agreement in principle is not reached within a few days. For the moment, discussions between the two parties focus on salaries and especially working conditions.
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With our correspondent in Montreal, Pascale Guéricolas
This is not a bluff, the unions warn. If negotiations do not succeed very quickly with the Quebec government, citizens could make facing strikes in hospitals and the school sector from the beginning of 2024.
For Magali Picard, who chairs the FTQ, one of the bodies grouped within a Common Union Front, this battle affects the entire population. “ It is important for our world to have agreements that will improve services. Improving employment conditions also means improving service to the population, both in our schools and in our health establishments. The situation is serious. Everyone wants an agreement in principle before Christmas », Explains the trade unionist.
According to the coalition of unions, the government is still refusing the solutions provided by its employees to improve working conditions.
“ Lots of fuss, little results currently. That’s why they say, there are days left before the end of the year, there are days left before the end of the year. You have to be able to move forward », Declares Éric Gingras who chairs the CSQ, which brings together 60% of teachers.
Another teachers union has already been on an indefinite general strike since November 23.
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