Advertisement

Paramedics stage protest, block access to SAQ distribution centres in Montreal, Quebec City

Click to play video: 'Paramedics stage protest, block access to SAQ distribution centres in Montreal, Quebec City'
Paramedics stage protest, block access to SAQ distribution centres in Montreal, Quebec City
WATCH: An estimated 300 paramedics blocked all entry and exit points at two SAQ distribution centres on Friday over stalled contract negotiations with the provincial government. – Feb 25, 2022

A pair of government-run liquor board distribution centres in Quebec City and Montreal were completely shut down Friday morning as paramedics staged protests outside.

An estimated 300 paramedics blocked all entry and exit points at both distribution centres.

They used bails of hay and ambulance trucks to block the main gates. No cargo vehicles from the main distribution points were able to enter or leave.

The Confédération des syndicats nationaux (CSN), the labour federation that represents the employees, said the demonstration is targeting the Société des alcools du Québec (SAQ) because it aims to cause an “economic disturbance.”

Receive the latest medical news and health information delivered to you every Sunday.

Get weekly health news

Receive the latest medical news and health information delivered to you every Sunday.
By providing your email address, you have read and agree to Global News' Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy.

Quebec paramedics have been without a contract for the last two years, according to the CSN.

Story continues below advertisement

“We need to be seen because we have been two years without a contract and nothing has come of it,” Christine Paquin, a spokesperson for the paramedics, told Global News.

The goal, according to the union, is to get back to the negotiating table to work out a deal. Working conditions and schedules are the main sticking points.

“We have been working through the pandemic. There is a lot of overtime. We are working on-call 24-7,” Paquin said. “It’s time that our conditions change.”

In a statement, the SAQ said the demonstrations did disrupt their services but said it is confident the effects on their operations “will be minor.”

Story continues below advertisement

“We are in contact with the relevant authorities to ensure the safety of our employees and our properties,” the liquor board said. “We hope the situation will resolve quickly.”

Sponsored content

AdChoices