Labor Lockouts at Key Canadian Ports Enter Third Day

Labor lockouts at the Canadian ports of Prince Rupert and Vancouver have now stretched into a third day, with no progress in talks between the union and the employers. As the industrial action continues, the number of ships waiting offshore is growing, with no resolution currently in sight.

The BC Maritime Employers Association (BCMEA) reported that no discussions have taken place with the International Longshore and Warehouse Union Ship & Dock Foremen Local 514 (ILWU) since the lockout began on November 4th. Frustrated business groups are urging the federal government to step in and limit the economic damage caused by the standoff.

Vessels are accumulating off the coast of Vancouver as the strikes persist, including the YM Plum, SM Qingdao, CMA CGM Orfeo, ESL Nhava Sheva, and Marcos V, all waiting near Vancouver Island. The ongoing strike jeopardizes approximately $577 million in daily trade. With both sides holding firm and no government intervention yet, the end of the dispute remains uncertain.

Adding to the disruption is the concurrent strike at the Port of Montreal, which started on November 1st. This action was initiated by the Canadian Union of Public Employees Local 375 (CUPE) over disputes concerning job security, wages, and working conditions. Talks between the Maritime Employers Association and CUPE are reportedly still ongoing.