Parc Jean-Drapeau's 230 blue-collar workers threaten unlimited strike over stalled wages

Parc Jean-Drapeau's 230 blue-collar workers are threatening an unlimited strike if the City of Montreal doesn't raise its wage offer. The workers, represented by CUPE Local 301, have not received a pay increase since December 2023 — the contract expired then, and negotiations have stalled.

The sticking point is the City's proposal: an 11% increase over five years. Nicolas De Ciccio, president of the Montreal Blue Collar Workers Union, called it impoverishing to workers facing a cost-of-living crisis. "Our members have been without a contract since December 2023. That's a long time! We haven't had any salary increases since then, and inflation has continued to rise. We proudly keep this iconic park afloat, but we can no longer do so without a contract!" he said in a CUPE statement.

During a general assembly on July 16, members voted unanimously in favour of pressure tactics that could include an unlimited general strike. The timing matters: Parc Jean-Drapeau is essential during Montreal's major events — Formula 1, Osheaga, ÎleSoniq, LASSO. The Vans Warped Tour is scheduled for August 21 and 22. If workers walk out, it could disrupt operations during peak festival season.

This follows a pattern. Last February and April, Montreal's 6,000 blue-collar workers staged four days of walkouts that affected snow removal and pothole repairs across the city.