The Ongoing CPE Strike: A Fight for Women, by Women
The strike movement among workers in early childhood centers (CPE) affiliated with the CSN continues to make waves across Quebec. Since yesterday, these dedicated employees have once again taken to the streets, and their strike will last until next Tuesday. Today, under the pouring rain in Quebec City, thousands of workers rallied in a powerful demonstration, uniting under the theme: "CPE: A Fight for and by Women."
The protest was not just a show of force but a call for urgent action. Many delegations from across the province participated, including members of the CPE La Ramée union from Îles-de-la-Madeleine. The movement has received strong support from organizations like the Table de concertation féministe Gaspésie-Îles-de-la-Madeleine, which reaffirmed its commitment to the workers’ demands.
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The core issue? The workers are calling for fair treatment and wage parity. Despite ongoing negotiations, the progress has been insufficient. The collective agreement for CPE employees expired more than two years ago, and the workers feel that the government and employers are standing firm on their positions, unwilling to make the necessary concessions. Their demands primarily revolve around wage disparities between CPE workers and public sector employees, as well as issues regarding staff-to-child ratios and the lack of regional bonuses offered in the public system.
CSN represents over 80% of unionized CPE workers across Quebec, making this movement one of the most significant labor actions in the sector. The strike affects more than 400 CPEs across all regions, disrupting services for thousands of families but underscoring the urgency of their cause. The union has now announced additional strike days on April 7 and 8, signaling an escalation if negotiations do not advance. There is even talk of a possible unlimited general strike.
The government, for its part, remains firm, stating that it has already offered a 17.4% salary increase—an amount accepted by other unions representing CPE educators, such as the CSQ and FTQ. It also proposes additional measures to support educators working with children who have special needs. Government representatives argue that a resolution is within reach if the union is willing to negotiate on sector-specific adjustments.
However, the striking workers argue that the proposed increases and conditions do not address the deeper issues of fairness and working conditions. They demand the recognition of their years of experience through "vacation network" benefits, ensuring fair vacation time based on their tenure. They also call for improved benefits, regional incentives, and respect for staff ratios to enhance the quality of care provided to children.
As the negotiations continue, the pressure is mounting. With thousands of workers standing together, refusing to back down, the message is clear: they will not accept a compromise that fails to acknowledge the value of their work. The coming days will be critical in determining the outcome of this labor movement, and all eyes are now on the Quebec government to see whether they will respond with meaningful changes or push the workers further toward indefinite strike action.
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