After a four-day break, negotiations have resumed between striking dock workers and employers in Pacific Canada, as stated by the British Columbia Maritime Employers Association (BCMEA) on Saturday. Assisted by federal mediators, the BCMEA and the International Longshore and Warehouse Union Canada (ILWU Canada) held a meeting on Saturday, following a halt in discussions on Tuesday.
On July 1, more than 7,500 port employees initiated a strike to support their demand for higher wages. This strike has caused disruptions at the ports of Vancouver and Prince Rupert, which are crucial hubs for importing and exporting raw goods and natural resources in Canada.
The federal and provincial governments have urged the parties to resume negotiations. Premier Danielle Smith of Alberta has expressed support for recalling parliament immediately to pass legislation that would end the strike.
To address the shortage of skilled trades labor and ILWU Canada’s request to expand its jurisdiction over routine terminal maintenance work, the BCMEA submitted a new plan. However, ILWU Canada rejected this proposal.
ILWU Canada has not yet responded to requests for comment, and the union is planning a rally in Vancouver on Sunday.
The Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters (CM&E) trade association has claimed that the daily disruptions caused by the strike amount to approximately C$500 million ($377 million) in trade. Experts warn that these disruptions could lead to supply-chain issues, contributing to inflation.
