Quebec signals compromise on pension plans amid labour strife

As rotating strikes continue among Quebec's public sector workers, Treasury Board President MartinCoiteuxsays he'swilling to delayincreasing theretirement age and changes to pension plans.

"We're at a crossroads," saidCoiteux, referring to ongoing talks between the government and public sector unions.

Teachers, health-care professionals and civil servantsheld walkouts across the province last week to protest stalled negotiations.

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Coiteuxtold Radio-Canadathat there could be compromises from the government in an effort to improve negotiations.

Next few weeks are 'crucial'

Last December, thegovernment announced major changes to pension plans, including a delay in retirement age fromage 60 to 62,while increasingpenalties for early retirement.

Coiteux said the proposed measures to pensions plans and retirement ages could be delayed instead of coming into effect by Jan.1, 2017 but he did not specify a new date.

"It can be implemented gradually and the unions can provide us with propositions,"Coiteuxsaid.

"We're waiting on propositions."

Quebec will not back down on the measures themselves, but Coiteux said it is willing to postponethem.

Additional public sector strikes are planned for the months of November and December.