B.C. facing port shutdown as employers issue lockout notice in dispute with foremen

Ports in British Columbia are preparing for a potential provincewide labor disruption as employers announce plans to lock out members of the union representing over 700 foremen following a strike notice.

The BC Maritime Employers Association has issued a formal notice stating that they will “defensively” lock out members of the International Longshore and Warehouse Union Local 514 starting Monday at 8 a.m.

1:22
72-hour strike notice issued at B.C. ports

The lockout is expected to halt all cargo operations among association members throughout B.C. and is intended to ensure a safe and orderly wind-down of operations amid escalating strike actions.

The union has issued a 72-hour strike notice for job action starting Monday at 8 a.m. after unsuccessful mediated talks this week following the expiration of the contract in March 2023.

Local 514 president Frank Morena states that workers had planned limited job action, but employers overreacted by threatening a full-scale lockout.

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Morena expresses the workers’ frustration with employers’ refusal to negotiate major issues like manning requirements and port automation, characterizing the lockout as an attempt to involve the federal government in the dispute.

He emphasizes the union’s efforts to negotiate a new contract without job action but criticizes the employers for their lack of cooperation.

2:05
Impact of B.C. grain terminal workers strike

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The union accuses employers of failing to show up for negotiations and not notifying others of their absence during the mediated talks this week.

Employers state that their final offer to the union remains open unless withdrawn and express regret over the need for the lockout due to the union’s actions.

The employers are open to rescinding the lockout notice if the union withdraws its strike notice.

0:39
Port workers’ union gets strike mandate

Recent disruptions at the Port of Vancouver due to labor unrest include picketing at grain terminals, work stoppages by major railways, and a port worker strike lasting 13 days last year.

The current dispute involves one employer, DP World, with the union’s attempt to negotiate directly being overruled by the Canada Industrial Relations Board.

The union previously voted in favor of strike action if necessary.

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