On April 24, 2025, tensions escalated at Hydro-Québec as two more unions adopted strike mandates, joining four others that had already done so last November. The latest mandates, which include pressure tactics leading up to an indefinite general strike, reflect the ongoing frustrations over stalled negotiations that have now stretched for more than 14 months.
The two unions involved, the Syndicat des employés de métier and the Syndicat des technologues, reported overwhelming support from their members. In a significant show of solidarity, 99.3 percent of the members of the first union voted in favor of the mandate, while 98.9 percent supported the latter. "This vote, held in the context of difficult negotiations that have dragged on for more than 14 months, garnered an exceptional, even historic, participation rate of more than 86 percent of members," stated union presidents Robert Claveau and Frederic Savard in a joint press release.
As part of their strategy, rallies are planned for Thursday at noon in front of several Hydro-Québec offices, including the company's head office in downtown Montreal. Demonstrations are also set to take place in multiple cities across Quebec, including Quebec City, Trois-Rivières, Rouyn-Noranda, Chicoutimi, Saint-Jérôme, Baie-Comeau, Gatineau, Rimouski, Saint-Bruno, Saint-Hyacinthe, Laval, Valleyfield, and Joliette. These rallies are part of a collective effort by the unions to pressure the utility company into resuming negotiations.
Negotiations have primarily focused on critical issues such as wages, pensions, and telework policies. The unions argue that the prolonged discussions have not yielded satisfactory results, prompting them to consider more drastic measures. The strike mandates signal a readiness to take stronger action if the situation does not improve.
In a related development, the Administrative Labour Tribunal dismissed complaints from two other Hydro-Québec unions on April 21, 2025. These unions had claimed that the electricity producer was negotiating in bad faith and hindering union activities. The tribunal's decision has added to the frustrations felt by union members, who are now more determined than ever to fight for their rights and demands.
The backdrop of these developments is a growing sense of dissatisfaction among Hydro-Québec employees. Many workers feel that their contributions to the utility's success have not been adequately recognized in terms of compensation and working conditions. As negotiations continue, the unions are hopeful that the pressure from these strike mandates and rallies will compel Hydro-Québec to engage more constructively in discussions.
The situation at Hydro-Québec is emblematic of broader labor tensions in the province and across Canada, where many workers are advocating for better pay and working conditions in the wake of rising living costs. As the protests unfold, attention will be focused not only on the actions of the unions but also on how Hydro-Québec responds to these mounting pressures.
With the possibility of strikes looming, both sides will need to navigate these turbulent waters carefully. The unions have made it clear that they are prepared to escalate their actions if necessary, signaling a willingness to disrupt services to achieve their goals. The stakes are high, and the outcome of these negotiations could have significant implications for the future of labor relations within the utility sector in Quebec.
As the date of the planned rallies approaches, the atmosphere among Hydro-Québec employees is charged with anticipation and resolve. Many are hoping that their collective voice will finally lead to a breakthrough in negotiations, allowing them to secure the wages and working conditions they believe they deserve.
The ongoing situation at Hydro-Québec serves as a reminder of the power of collective action in the face of adversity. As more unions join the fight, the potential for a larger movement is evident, one that could resonate beyond the utility sector and inspire workers across various industries to stand up for their rights.
In conclusion, the unfolding events at Hydro-Québec highlight the critical intersection of labor rights and corporate responsibility. With negotiations stagnant and protests ramping up, the coming weeks will be pivotal in determining the future of labor relations within the utility and beyond.
