Strike averted in provincial parks on eve of construction holiday
Ruby Pratka, Local Journalism Initiative reporter
editor@qctonline.com
Campers and kayakers across the province are breathing a sigh of relief and loading up their roof racks after unionized employees at the Société des établissements de plein air du Québec (SÉPAQ), the agency which runs Quebec’s provincial parks, voted in favour of a new agreement in principle, avoiding a strike.
Members voted on the agreement on July 17, days before the beginning of the two-week- long construction holiday, a popular time of year for camping. About 75 per cent of voting members approved the agreement, according to the union.
Union locals at SÉPAQ parks around the province are represented by the Syndicat de la fonction publique du Québec (SFPQ) federation. The previous collective agreement between the unions and the SÉPAQ expired at the end of 2023. The union had previously threatened to strike over the June 24 long weekend; that potential strike was averted when the SÉPAQ submitted a new proposed agreement. A strike would have closed most provincial parks, campgrounds and tourist information centres, along with the Aquarium du Québec, several historic sites such as the Manoir Montmorency, and popular SÉPAQ- run hotels such as the Gîte du Mont-Albert and the Auberge du montagne des Chic-Chocs in the Gaspé.
“The high approval rate reflects the members’ satisfaction with this agreement. We are pleased with the positive outcome of these negotiations for all parties, as well as for Quebec vacationers who will be able to enjoy SÉPAQ facilities and the services offered by our members, who are always so passionate and professional,” said SFPQ president Christian Daigle in a statement.
The agreement, valid through the end of 2028, includes “adjustments and raises” that amount to a salary increase of 25 per cent or more, according to the union.
“In addition, there are substantial bonuses for some of the staff, as well as other gains, monetary or normative, related to working conditions. This agreement guarantees our lowest-paid employees will be paid three dollars an hour more than minimum wage for the last three years of the collective agreement. It is thanks to the determination of our members and the hard work of the negotiating team that it was possible to obtain an improved offer. SÉPAQ recognizes more than ever the expertise and contribution of the staff we represent,” said SFPQ vice president and chief negotiator Patrick Audy.
SÉPAQ said in a statement that all reservations made for the summer at SÉPAQ sites would be honoured and sites would remain open. “We are pleased to be able to close this chapter and focus on providing memorable experiences for visitors and conserving exceptional natural areas,” said SÉPAQ CEO Martin Soucy, praising the dedication of SÉPAQ employees and of negotiators on both sides. “SÉPAQ was committed to improving the working conditions of its employees as part of an agreement that respected its ability to pay and did not pass the bill on to visitors.”