While tens of thousands of students across Montreal are off on spring break, hundreds of school crossing guards are up in arms over their expired collective agreement. They’ve been without a work contract since December 2015, and some union members are now calling for the mayor’s resignation.
“It’s time to give some recognition for those workers that take care of our children,” said CUPE-Quebec’s regional director Marc Ranger. “The solution is easy. Mayor Valerie Plante has to give them a clear signal at the bargaining table.”
Dozens of school crossing guards protested in front of Montreal police headquarters on St-Urbain Street on Tuesday. With an average age of 62, crossing guards want better wages and working conditions.
“We are the only employees from the city that don’t have any pension, that don’t have any insurance,” said Manon Gosselin, vice president of CUPE Local 930. “They want to take away seven of our 10 sick days. Enough is enough.”
Montreal mayor Valerie Plante refused a request for an interview. Her spokesperson said both sides are planning to meet on March 19 to see what can be done.
If both sides fail to reach an agreement, crossing guards haven’t ruled out stepping up pressure tactics.
Many had high hopes with the election of a new city administration, but more than three months into her mandate, negotiations are at a standstill.
“We’re waiting to have a signal at the bargaining table from the new administration,” Ranger said.
If anyone understands the importance of their work, it’s the kids. Eight-year-old Derek Chiasson joined the protest, alongside his mother, who is a crossing guard. “They help us cross the street for our safety,” he said. “It’s important.”