Impact of Strikes on Quebec's Public Sector

Over half a million public sector workers in Quebec, representing more than 6% of the province's population, have gone on strike, causing widespread disruption. Public schools are closed, and non-urgent healthcare services are delayed. The strikes are led by a coalition of four unions known as the Common Front. Their demands include improved working conditions, better wages, and smaller class sizes for teachers. The strikes have affected parents who need to find alternative childcare options and have intensified due to the government passing a healthcare reform bill, which healthcare workers believe will worsen conditions. The unions and the government remain far apart in negotiations, with the unions rejecting the government's offer of a 12.7% wage increase over five years.