Press release
États généraux du syndicalisme: reflection continues

More than 500 activists from Quebec’s nine major labour organizations — APTS, CSN, CSD, CSQ, FAE, FIQ, FTQ, SFPQ and SPGQ — are gathering today to take a decisive step in the Union générale du syndicalisme working together to develop solutions to current and future challenges.

“This unprecedented collective initiative in the history of the labour movement reflects our shared commitment to dialogue and the exchange of ideas. Under the theme United for the future, we are responding to attacks on workers’ rights with solidarity and a renewed determination to strengthen union action,” jointly stated the presidents of the participating organizations: Robert Comeau (APTS), Luc Vachon (CSD), Caroline Senneville (CSN), Éric Gingras (CSQ), Mélanie Hubert (FAE), Julie Bouchard (FIQ), Magali Picard (FTQ), Christian Daigle (SFPQ) and Guillaume Bouvrette (SPGQ).

A solution-oriented approach

Launched one year ago, the process began with a broad consultation involving members from all participating labour organizations. This initiative provided a clear picture of members’ perceptions and the challenges facing the labour movement.

One key finding stands out: for the vast majority of workers consulted, unions remain as essential as ever, particularly in addressing growing social inequalities and the rising cost of living.

Among the main themes identified, increasing member participation and engagement outside of bargaining periods, strengthening collective power and enhancing mobilization capacity have emerged as top priorities. These issues will be central to discussions throughout the conference.

The consultation also highlights the importance of strengthening inclusion efforts, particularly for young workers, racialized and immigrant workers, members of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community and temporary foreign workers. It also underscores the need to maintain a vibrant and active union democracy across all organizations.

Building on these findings — and supported by academic expertise — participants will work together to develop ideas and proposals over the coming months, with the goal of creating an inspiring action plan based on concrete solutions for the future of Quebec’s labour movement.

“The consultations have made one thing clear: members want a strong, inclusive and mobilized labour movement. This conference is our opportunity to turn their concerns into concrete solutions. Together, we have both the responsibility — and the ability — to build a strong balance of power and a union movement that truly reflects the aspirations of our members,” the presidents concluded.