SURREY BOARD OF TRADE PLEASED WITH CANADIAN GOVERNMENT INTERVENTION TO END PORT STRIKE, RESUME OPERATIONS
After nearly two years of stalled negotiations between the British Columbia Maritime Employers Association (BCMEA) and the International Longshore and Warehouse Union, Ship and Dock Foreman, Local 514 (ILWU Local 514), the Canadian government has stepped in to resolve the ongoing strike and lockout affecting British Columbia’s ports. The labour disruption, which has halted port activities since November 4, 2024, impacted 733 workers employed by BCMEA member companies and threatened significant economic consequences for the region and country.
Today, Minister MacKinnon announced the decision to invoke Section 107 of the Canada Labour Code, directing the Canadian Industrial Relations Board (CIRB) to order an immediate resumption of all port operations. This directive also mandates CIRB’s facilitation of final and binding arbitration to settle unresolved terms in the collective agreement. Additionally, the Minister instructed the CIRB to extend the current agreement terms until a new agreement is fully established.
“Resuming port operations is critical to alleviating transport chaos and restoring Canada’s international reputation as a reliable trade partner,” said Jasroop Gosal, Interim Spokesperson for the Surrey Board of Trade. “This government intervention is an important step in preventing further disruption to our supply chains, easing affordability pressures, and supporting the economic stability of businesses and communities across British Columbia and Canada.”
The Surrey Board of Trade commends the government for taking decisive action to protect Canada’s economy and supports a swift conclusion to the negotiations that honours the essential contributions of BC’s port workers.
-30-
Jasroop Gosal, 604-634-0345, jasroop@businessinsurrey.com
