Parties in B.C. port dispute to convene in attempt to resolve lockout following discussions with minister

The recent labour dispute at British Columbia’s ports has left container cargo traffic paralyzed and caused disruptions at Canada’s major trade gateways on both the Pacific and Atlantic oceans. Employers and the union representing supervisors are set to restart negotiations this weekend with the help of federal mediators in an attempt to reach a deal and end the lockout.

The situation escalated after the employers initiated a lockout in response to what they described as “strike activity” from the union. Despite the two sides being without a deal since March 2023, talks are set to resume with the aim of resolving the issues at hand.

One of the key concerns for the union is the implementation of port automation in cargo operations, with workers seeking assurances on staffing levels regardless of technological advancements. The employers have put forward a proposed agreement that includes a 19.2 per cent wage increase over a four-year term, along with an average lump sum payment of $21,000 per qualified worker.

The disruption comes at a time when container terminals in Montreal are also facing shutdowns due to a separate labour dispute, further adding to the challenges faced by the Canadian ports. This labour strife is not new to the Port of Vancouver, which has experienced several work disruptions in the past, including a 13-day strike last year and disruptions in the rail and grain-handling sectors earlier this year.

As talks resume this weekend, it is crucial for both parties to engage in constructive dialogue and work towards a mutually beneficial agreement that addresses the concerns of all stakeholders involved. With the assistance of federal mediators, there is hope that a resolution can be reached to restore normalcy to the operations at the ports and ensure the smooth flow of container cargo traffic.

Overall, the labour dispute highlights the importance of effective communication, negotiation, and collaboration in resolving conflicts in the workplace. By coming together and finding common ground, employers and the union can create a more stable and productive working environment for all parties involved.

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Montreal Port employers present ‘final’ offer to dockworkers, warn of possible lockout

The ongoing labor dispute between the Maritime Employers Association and the Syndicat des débardeurs du port de Montréal at the Port of Montreal has reached a critical point. The MEA has issued a final offer to the dockworkers’ union, threatening a lockout if an agreement is not reached by 9 p.m. Sunday.

The new offer from the MEA includes a significant salary increase for longshore workers, with a three per cent raise per year for four years and a 3.5 per cent raise for the two subsequent years. This offer would bring the total average compensation package for a longshore worker at the Port of Montreal to over $200,000 per year by the end of the contract.

In addition to the salary increase, the MEA is also requesting that longshore workers provide at least one hour’s notice when they will be absent from a shift, rather than the current one minute notice. This change is aimed at reducing management issues that have been impacting daily operations at the port.

The ongoing strike by the union has already paralyzed two terminals, representing 40 per cent of the port’s container handling capacity. A complete strike on overtime has also been in effect since October 10. The union is seeking the same increases granted to counterparts in other ports, as well as improvements in scheduling and work-life balance.

The potential lockout could have significant impacts on the port, which moves $400 million in goods every day. Montreal port authority CEO Julie Gascon has called for federal intervention to end the dispute, stating that negotiations at the table have not been successful and urging the government to help bring true industrial peace.

Federal Labour Minister Steven MacKinnon has also expressed concern over the slow pace of talks at the ports in Montreal and British Columbia, where more than 700 unionized port workers have been locked out since November 4. He emphasized the need for urgency in resolving the disputes.

As the situation continues to unfold, both employers and employees at the Port of Montreal are facing critical decisions that will impact not only their livelihoods but also the flow of goods through one of Canada’s key ports. Stay tuned for updates on this evolving labor dispute.

This article was sourced from The Canadian Press and is dated 2024.

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B.C. port lockout continues with no negotiations planned between employers and union

The ongoing lockout of over 700 unionized workers in British Columbia’s ports has caused a shutdown of shipping on the West Coast. The BC Maritime Employers Association recently made a final offer to the workers, including a 19.2% wage increase over four years. However, with no engagement with the union or federal mediators since the lockout began, the employer association is now considering reassessing their position as the shutdown continues.

It is uncertain whether the employers are contemplating a withdrawal of the offer or changes to the proposed contract terms. The union has expressed concerns about the lack of clarity on future staffing levels with the introduction of port automation. Despite ongoing labor strife, there have been no developments in the dispute overnight, leading to the closure of container cargo traffic at multiple ports in B.C.

The impact of this labor dispute is significant not just for the workers and employers involved but also for the broader economy. As the situation unfolds, it is crucial for both parties to come to a resolution that addresses the concerns raised while ensuring the smooth operation of the ports.

For more updates on this developing story, stay tuned for updates from The Canadian Press.

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Port lockout in B.C. set to commence due to failure to reach agreement in labour dispute with foremen union

The recent lockout against a union of more than 700 foremen at all British Columbia ports has caused disruptions in the maritime industry. The BC Maritime Employers Association initiated the lockout to ensure a safe wind-down of operations due to escalating strike actions. The International Longshore and Warehouse Union Local 514 had issued a 72-hour strike notice, prompting the defensive lockout by the association.

The union has criticized the association for its aggressive tactics, accusing them of trying to force government intervention in the dispute. The employers association, on the other hand, maintains that their final offer, which was presented to the union president, remains open to avoid unnecessary strike actions.

Union president Frank Morena has stood firm against any concessions that would remove parts of the collective agreement that were hard-fought for by members over the years. He made it clear that the union will not sign any contract that undermines existing agreements.

The ongoing dispute between the BCMEA and the ILWU Local 514 highlights the challenges in the maritime industry and the importance of finding a balanced resolution that respects the rights and contributions of all parties involved. As negotiations continue, it is crucial for both sides to engage in constructive dialogue and seek a mutually beneficial solution to prevent further disruptions in the industry.

©2024 The Canadian Press

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