Canadian port workers go on strike tomorrow

The International Longshore and Warehouse Union Canada (ILWU Canada) issued a 72-hour strike notice to the British Colombia Maritime Employers Association (BCMEA) with regards to the expired collective agreement.

The BCMEA received a formal, written strike notice on 28 June and ILWU Canada member longshore workers will walk off their jobs at 8 a.m. tomorrow, 1 July.

“Since 28 March, the BCMEA and ILWU Canada have been engaged in the conciliation and mediation process on the request of ILWU Canada, who triggered the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service (FMCS) by filing a notice of dispute,” noted BCMEA in a statement.

According to a CNBC report, on 28 June ILWU Canada accused BCMEA of demanding major concessions and that its goal is to safeguard jobs.

Rob Ashton, president of ILWU Canada, said, “Their only objective is to take away rights and conditions from longshore workers after having gorged themselves on record profits during the pandemic.”

BCMEA stated that it has advanced multiple proposals and positions, with the objective of making progress and achieving a fair deal at the table.

“Despite today’s regrettable development, we remain ready to re-engage with our labour partners through the federal mediation process, with the desire of reaching a fair and balanced deal at the table that keeps our ports stable and goods flowing for Canadians,” said the association.