theglobeandmail.com
Canada Port Strikes: Montreal Vote, BC Deadlock
Dock workers in Montreal and British Columbia are in labor disputes impacting Canada's economy. Montreal workers are voting on a contract, while BC talks have stalled.
English
Canada
Labour MarketEconomic ImpactLabor DisputeGovernment InterventionContract NegotiationPort Strike
Canadian Union Of Public Employees (Cupe)Maritime Employers AssociationBc Maritime Employers AssociationInternational Longshore And Warehouse Union Local 514Federal Mediation And Conciliation Service (Fmcs)
Lisa DjevahirdjianAnabel Martín KaigleSteven MackinnonGoldy Hyder
- What is the main issue in the Port of Montreal?
- The Port of Montreal dock workers were voting on a contract offer from employers, facing a 9 p.m. lockout deadline. If rejected, the lockout would halt $400 million in daily freight.
- What are the key differences in the contract proposals?
- The union in Montreal wants a 20% raise over four years, similar to deals in Halifax and Vancouver, while the employers offered 20% over six years, bringing average annual compensation to over $200,000.
- What is the status of the British Columbia port dispute?
- A labor dispute has paralyzed container cargo shipping at British Columbia's ports since Monday, with no progress made in mediated talks between the BC Maritime Employers Association and the union.
- How concerned are businesses and the government about these labor disputes?
- The lack of progress in negotiations at both Montreal and British Columbia ports has prompted concern from various business groups and the federal government, highlighting negative impacts on the Canadian economy and trade relations.
- What actions have been taken by the federal government to resolve the disputes?
- Federal Labour Minister Steven MacKinnon intervened, urging both parties to restart talks but expressing concern about the slow pace of negotiations. Over 100 organizations sent a joint letter urging decisive government action.