CANADA (From news reports) -- Some 150 workers began an indefinite strike on Monday at the Kruger paper mill in LaSalle, Montreal.

The union members had already walked off the job once for 36 hours on Nov. 21 and 22, then a second time for seven days starting on Dec. 10. This indefinite strike is therefore their third walkout.

The union, which is part of the Manufacturing Industry Federation affiliated with the CSN, reports that wages are the main point of contention. The two sides disagree on the real value of the proposed wage increases.

"We repeat once again that the employer's offers must prevent the impoverishment of workers, considering the rise in inflation during the term of the last collective agreement. There is also no reason why our purchasing power should not benefit from Kruger's overall success," said union president Benoit St-Cyr.

Management, for its part, maintains that its offers protect workers' purchasing power.

"Kruger is maintaining its offer: a 16 per cent wage increase over four years, including eight per cent in the first year, along with other improvements for our employees. This is a respectful proposal that will allow our employees to regain the purchasing power they have lost as a result of high inflation in recent years, and even improve it in the years to come."

Kruger management reports that it has implemented contingency plans to continue supplying its products to customers in light of the indefinite strike.

The Kruger plant in LaSalle specializes in residential paper products under several well-known brands.