STM tests out new tasks for ticket agents

Beginning today, metro users will see workers outside their ticket booths as part of a pilot project aimed at improving service.

MarvinRotrand, the vice-chair of theSTMboard of directors, said the project was launched in response to changes in the way customers purchase their transit tickets.The number of tickets purchased at booths continues to dropas more people turnto the automated machines, hesaid.

Inan interview with CBC Radio Noon, Rotrand explainedthe idea is to have STM employees "more dynamically" interact with the customers, rather than remain "in the ticket booth all day."

"They'll be helping customers who don't understand or who can't work the machines," saidRotrand,who is also the chair of the customer service committee of theSTM.

"They'll be providing information to tourists and customers who may have questions about where to make your transfers or which line to take on the metro."

Customers will have to usethe automated machines while employees are out of the booths, he added.

Unionconcerned about slowdown

For now, the project will be limited toJean-Talon,Rosemont,Radisson, Pie-IX, Square-Victoria and Lionel-Groulx.

Renato Carlone, the head of the union representing the workers, said he has some concerns about the project.

"We're all for customer service," he said. "My preoccupation is that it will just slow the service down."

Rotrand said the ticket agents will remain at their booths during peak times at the beginning and end of the month when customers renew their monthly passes.

He said that while STM employeesaren't required to speak English under Quebec law, they will make sure to have English pamphlets on hand.

"We cant force the employee to speak English to someone who asks a question in English, however in the vast bulk of cases STM employees are able to get by somewhat in English," he said.

"We try to have the policy of common sense prevail."

Radio Noon Montreal9:28STM's Metro ticket-takers leaving the booth, going for a walk

As a pilot-project, some ticket-takers will be walking around and trying to help customers. The STM's vice-chair, Marvin Rotrand explains the plan to Shawn Apel.