Latest news with #STQ
CBC
03-07-2025
- Entertainment
- CBC
Quebec City faces 10-day transit strike as popular music festival kicks off
Ferry and bus maintenance workers in Quebec City say they will walk off the job Friday for over a week just as the 57th edition of the city's most popular music festival gets underway. Festival d'été de Québec (FEQ), which began Thursday, draws tens of thousands of spectators for shows in the downtown core. This year, it will host headliners including Rod Stewart, Avril Lavigne, Benson Boon and Shania Twain. In 2024, 300,000 trips were made using the Réseau de transport de la capitale (RTC) during the 11-day festival, according to the transit network. On Thursday, the union representing over 350 bus maintenance workers with the RTC announced it would be going ahead with a strike starting Friday, halting bus service in the capital region until July 14. Ferry workers with the Société des traversiers du Québec (STQ) will also begin striking on Friday for nine days. Bruno Marchand, mayor of Quebec City, said the RTC workers are using the city's music festival as leverage in the negotiations. Two years ago, a strike was averted at the last minute, just before the start of the event. "We're not sacrificing the FEQ. We want this to be resolved, resolved as quickly as possible, but not at any price," said Marchand. Negotiations took place Wednesday and Thursday. According to the RTC, employees are demanding pay increases amounting to 30 per cent over five years. Claude Villeneuve, the leader of the opposition at city hall, says the wage demands are unrealistic and that it is obvious that the maintenance workers are specifically targeting the FEQ as a negotiating strategy. "I think it's a shame that the public is being held hostage like this," he said. He questioned the ability of RTC's general manager Nicolas Girard to bring these negotiations to an end. Request to establish minimum service rejected In 2024, Quebec's labour tribunal concluded for the second time that the RTC is not an essential service. The judgment from November 2024 said there was no danger for the health and safety of the population in the absence of public transport. But last month, Girard wrote a letter to the president of the union for RTC maintenance employees reiterating a request to establish a minimum service offer in the event of a strike. He cited Montreal as an example, saying an agreement was reached between the Société de transport de Montréal (STM) and the Montreal union for transport workers to ensure a level of minimal service in the event of a strike. He wrote that a joint agreement in Quebec City is necessary to mitigate the effects of a complete service disruption. "Our objective is not to call into question the right to strike, but to find a fair balance between the legitimate rights of workers and the fundamental needs of the population," read the letter. "For several low-income residents, families, the elderly and people with reduced mobility, public transport is the only way to get to work, the hospital, the pharmacy." The union rejected this request, according to RTC president Maude Mercier Larouche. What's considered essential? Public transport is generally not deemed essential, despite the attempts to characterize it as such, says Barry Eidlin, associate professor of sociology at McGill University who specializes in labour movements and policy. "This is a constant effort to expand the notion of essential workers in an effort to circumvent the collective bargaining process by undermining workers' ability to strike," he said. He says there's a tendency to force people back to work as a "knee-jerk reaction." But essential work, and what is deemed as such, can differ significantly based on the context, he says. Ultimately, when workers go on strike, it's meant to be a reminder of the employees' essential role. "If employers are truly concerned about the well-being of their clients and customers, they also have the ability to negotiate and reach agreement with workers," said Eidlin.
Daily Record
05-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Record
GMB's Susanna Reid stuns in 'lovely' Next dress that's a 'must have for the season'
The TV host was spotted wearing this midi dress that is perfect for the upcoming wedding season. Susanna Reid often impresses us with her feminine and chic styles on Good Morning Britain. The good news is that many of her top choices can be picked up straight from the high street. This week, the TV presenter Love & Roses Cobalt Blue Pleated Ruffle Midi Dress that is available to buy from Next. The 54 year-old's stylist, Debbie Harper, recently shared in an Instagram story that she wore this midi-length frock that retails at £69 on yesterday's episode on Wednesday, June 4. According to the fashion retailer, it is the "must-have midi dress for the season", and we can't help but agree, as its fancier design will come in handy for all those wedding invites marked on the summer calendar. Susanna's cobalt blue version of this dress is available in a regular-fit design, with sizes ranging from a UK eight through to 20. So, fans can be rest assured that there is still quite a bit of stock left online. Love & Roses Cobalt Blue Pleated Ruffle Midi Dress £69 Next Buy here Product Description Shoppers can also check out the same dress in four different colours such as red, coral pink, a neutral animal print and a red floral pattern. They are all available in a regular design, with sizes from a UK eight to 22. This midi-length frock boasts a few standout features, mainly the "beautiful" ruffle detail along the chic V-neckline and waist. It also boasts a button-down front that opens into a front split, allowing extra movement when walking or dancing. Another star feature is the pleat detailing along the front of the dress and its floaty sleeves that finish with an elasticated cuff for a comfortable touch. Ideal for wearing to summer weddings and graduations, we'd advise wearing this Love & Roses dress to fancier functions. We think a pair of neutral coloured heels, alongside some muted accessories will let the classy design do all the talking. Fashion deal of the week In need of new trainers, but don't want to pay Skechers prices. Then these STQ Women's Slip-On Trainers are said to be "much better" than the famed brand. Even better, they are currently priced from just £30.99 on Amazon. With their slip-on style design and ultra-breathable mesh material, these trainers are said to be a fuss-free option for anyone who spends long periods of time on their feet, alongside anyone who suffers from foot pain issues such as plantar fasciitis. The flexible knitted material features an elastic cuff, making them easy to pop on and take off, while the wide fit fabric has been designed to make it feel like you are wearing nothing on your feet. Crafted with over 1,000 ventilation holes, they ensure that feet don't get to sweaty during wear, while the memory foam insole provides good arch support, making it feel "like walking on air". Available to buy in sizes three through to eight, shoppers can select from eight colours including black, grey and pink. However, it's worth noting that the £30.99 price-tag is available on the black colourway. With the STQ Trainers posing the cheapest price-tag, shoppers might be happy to hear that they have earned a 4.4 rating based on over 5,000 Amazon reviews that suggest they are "light as a feather" and "really comfortable". One delighted shopper said: "Super lightweight, comfortable and a fab colour pink. Much better all round than the Skechers I bought at four times the price! Your feet will love these." For shopper who aren't too keen on wearing sleeves, there is this Cream Floral Print Chiffon V-Neck Midi Dress from high street retailer Roman for £65. Meanwhile, New Look shoppers can save 40 percent on a very similar style to Susanna's with this Gini London Navy Pleated Hanky Hem Midi Dress that is now £31.20, down from £52. For those keen on the dress the GMB presenter wore, then it is worth knowing that, while it currently only has two reviews, both of them are glowing five-stars, meaning there is not a single piece of negative criticism. Join the Daily Record WhatsApp community! Get the latest news sent straight to your messages by joining our WhatsApp community today. You'll receive daily updates on breaking news as well as the top headlines across Scotland. No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the Daily Record team. All you have to do is click here if you're on mobile, select 'Join Community' and you're in! If you're on a desktop, simply scan the QR code above with your phone and click 'Join Community'. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose 'exit group'. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice. One of the positive reviews read: "Beautiful dress, true to size and perfect for a special occasion." And someone else pleased with their purchase wrote: "Lovely dress!" Despite having no longer low-rated reviews, one thing that we would advise is that it is out of stock for petite shoppers. This means that the regular-fit may not be suitable for all heights, so it's always worth trying on if it can be found in store before purchasing. Purchase Susanna Reid's Love & Roses Cobalt Blue Pleated Ruffle Midi Dress for £69 from Next here.
Daily Record
29-05-2025
- Lifestyle
- Daily Record
The 'light as a feather' trainers that are 'better than Skechers' for under £31
Amazon shoppers can't stop praising these trainers that are said to "feel like walking on air." It can be quite the task to find the correct pair of trainers. Not only do they need to be comfy, but they also need to be supportive at the same time. One brand that many will turn to is, of course, Skechers. However, for those who don't want to pay the famed footwear brand's prices, we have found the perfect alternative. On Amazon, shoppers cannot stop gushing over the STQ Women's Slip On Trainers that they say are "much better" than a pair of Skechers. With prices starting from just £30.99, they are certainly a cheaper option for anyone worried about money. With their slip-on style design and ultra-breathable mesh material, these trainers are said to be a fuss-free option for anyone who spends long periods of time on their feet, alongside anyone who suffers from foot pain issues such as plantar fasciitis. The flexible knitted material features an elastic cuff, making them easy to pop on and take off, while the wide fit fabric has been designed to make it feel like you are wearing nothing on your feet. STQ Women's Slip on Trainers £30.99 Amazon Buy here Product Description Crafted with over 1,000 ventilation holes, they ensure that feet don't get to sweaty during wear, while the memory foam insole provides good arch support, making it feel "like walking on air". Available to buy in sizes three through to eight, shoppers can select from eight colours including black, grey and pink. However, it's worth noting that the £30.99 price-tag is available on the black colourway. Of course, there's no denying the reputation Skechers has earned, and shoppers who prefer purchasing a branded pair can save money on the firm's GOwalk Joy - Centerpiece slip-in trainers that have been reduced from £55 to £40.99. Alternatively, since brands can be a bit more expensive, another pair that offer a similar design, but with a price-tag more align with the Amazon pair, are these Hush Puppies Slip-On Shoes that are £37.49, down from £75, at Debenhams. With the STQ Trainers posing the cheapest price-tag, shoppers might be happy to hear that they have earned a 4.4 rating based on over 5,000 Amazon reviews that suggest they are "light as a feather" and "really comfortable". Join the Daily Record WhatsApp community! Get the latest news sent straight to your messages by joining our WhatsApp community today. You'll receive daily updates on breaking news as well as the top headlines across Scotland. No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the Daily Record team. All you have to do is click here if you're on mobile, select 'Join Community' and you're in! If you're on a desktop, simply scan the QR code above with your phone and click 'Join Community'. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose 'exit group'. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice. One delighted shopper said: "Super lightweight, comfortable and a fab colour pink. Much better all round than the Skechers I bought at four times the price! Your feet will love these." A similar review read: "I am delighted with these trainers. I have always bought Skechers, but they are very pricey, so after reading the reviews, I thought I would give these a try. I wore them out this morning and they were really comfortable, no rubbed feet, I'm glad to say! I will definitely be ordering more in other colours, and what a great price." Fashion deal of the week Looking for a new wardrobe staple that will be comfortable all summer long? The Next's Wide Leg Trousers with linen might be up your street. In fact, they are so popular with other shoppers who say they "can't wait" to wear them when the weather heats up. Available in a selection of colours and prints, there is a pair for everyone. However, prices do range from as low as £22 to £49, but this does depend on the style that shoppers select. Ideal for balmy days, these trousers have been designed in a looser fit than usual and have been crafted from a soft material with added linen. Boasting the on-trend wide-leg design, it's no wonder shoppers are calling them "very comfortable" to wear. They also feature an elasticated waistband that won't dig into the stomach, while two practical side pockets finish the design. A hit for summer, these linen trousers can be paired with flip-flops, loose fitting tops and even swimwear when by the beach. Available in both petite and regular, they can be bought in sizes eight through to 20. Just a few options shoppers can choose from include a basic black, red and chocolate brown, while vibrant patterns of palm trees and florals are also included. Multiple colours of the Next trousers boast glowing reviews, as one reads: "Lovely flowing cut, very flattering. Can't wait to wear these when the weather is better!" A second shopper praised: "Great fit. Very flattering. Can be dressed up or down for day or night wear." Next's Wide Leg Trousers with Linen range from £22 to £49 and can be bought here. While someone else said of the shoes: "Best buy in the shoe department! Light as a feather, feels like I'm walking on air, perfect." Not all Skechers fans have been impressed, with one suggesting they were not worth the money, writing: "I bought this pair to replace my old Skecher walk on air trainer. It's a mistake. Although the shoes are light weight, they don't fit well. Just so uncomfortable." However, someone else comparing them to Skechers left a positive review that read: "I usually buy Skechers, but they are quite expensive. I wanted a lightweight, comfortable shoe that I could wear all day without my feet hurting/aching. These shoes fit that description perfectly. They are as described. I'm usually a size 6, but I ordered a 5.5. They fit just right. I'd definitely recommend buying these." here.
