The Union representing STO bus drivers says its members have voted 98% in favour of a strike mandate.
The vote was held Sunday, according to the Syndicat Uni du Transport local 591.
Workers have been without a contract for two years. Scheduling and salaries are at the heart of the negotiations.
The Société de transport de l'Outaouais said on its website Monday a strike mandate by the union is part of the negotiation process and does not mean a strike is guaranteed.
However, it does mean the union has 60 days to deliver a 72-hour strike notice to STO management.
The STO says negotiations with the union will continue through the month of December and the two sides are talking. Additionally, both sides will be meeting with the Canada Industrial Relations Board on the 19th, 20th, and 21st of December to discuss whether the STO is considered and essential service, thus keeping workers from being able to walk off the job.
In 2008, OC Transpo drivers, dispatchers and mechanics voted 98% in favour of a strike, and were off the job for 51 days before a deal was reached. OC Transpo is not considered an essential service.
With files from Énergie 104.1 Gatineau