CPE (Centre de la petite enfance) all around Quebec are on strike for an indefinite period. There’s been a lot of manifestation with the “Conseil du Trésor”. The Legault government offered a 17,4% salary increase for five years. “The issue of salaries is the main ‘crux’ of these negotiations. In fact, it is the final obstacle to overcome before reaching an agreement,” said Stephanie Vachon, the CPE representative at the Fédération de la santé et des services sociaux. There’s a possibility it ends in an unlimited general strike if nothing is resolved.
Approximately 50 000 children in Quebec are affected by the strike. 13 000 CPE employees, and more than 400 daycare centers are also touched by this strike.
Marie-Florence Hébert, a single mother of two is suffering from the consequences of the conflict. She took many days off to take care of her children but she can’t really take more. She struggles with money, so it’s important that she works so she can take care of her children and her as well. “As much as we support the strike, we have no choice but to go with it and be anxious, because it has a mental and financial impact.” said Ms. Hébert.
The strike might continue for a while, but we know for sure that on April 14th, 15th, and 16th many daycare centers will close.
Parents will need to keep their children home. They will need to be creative to take care of their kids. Some of them will call their parents or friends to take care of their little ones. Others will take days off, but either way they will need to find solutions.
