Quebec construction workers protest as government set to table back-to-work bill

The Canadian Press</span>
Published Monday, May 29, 2017 7:34AM EDT
Last Updated Monday, May 29, 2017 11:17AM EDT

MONTREAL -- Hundreds of striking construction workers protested outside Quebec's legislature on Monday, as the government prepared back-to-work legislation scheduled to be tabled later in the day.

Protest organizers said thousands of workers were expected to arrive in Quebec City for the protest by Monday evening to express their frustration at failed contract negotiations.

Premier Philippe Couillard said during question period his government's bill will be tabled Monday. Members of the legislature are expected to debate its contents late into the night.

An alliance of construction unions broke off negotiations with a group representing construction companies on Sunday.

Union representatives said they preferred to wait for back-to-work legislation.

A spokesman for the group bargaining for the companies said the unions have made unacceptable demands.

Opposition leader Jean-Francois Lisee criticized the Liberals for failing to bring the two sides together for a negotiated settlement.

Roughly 175,000 construction workers began their strike last week, the second such walkout in the Quebec construction industry in four years.

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