Hydro-Québec Reaches Tentative Agreement with 5,500-Member Union
Hydro-Québec has reached a tentative agreement with its second-largest union, representing about 5,500 specialists and professionals. This union is part of the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) and is affiliated with the Fédération des travailleurs et travailleuses du Québec (FTQ).
Details of the Tentative Agreement
The specific terms of this agreement have not been made public yet. CUPE announced on Friday that the agreement will be presented to its members during general meetings, scheduled to occur shortly. This practice of withholding details is customary until members have a chance to review the proposal.
Background on Negotiations
The collective agreement between Hydro-Québec and the union expired in December 2024. Recent negotiations surfaced following a period of labor tension, where union members initially applied pressure by refusing overtime work. CUPE has indicated that this tactic will cease now that an agreement has been reached.
Key Issues in the Dispute
- The primary contention was related to the use of subcontracting.
- The union’s stance focused on retaining in-house expertise and protecting jobs.
- Hydro-Québec sought flexibility to adapt to dynamic operational requirements.
This tentative agreement marks a significant development in labor relations at Hydro-Québec and reflects ongoing dialogues between management and staff representatives. Further discussions will follow as union members assess the proposal in the upcoming meetings.
