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Canadian West Coast dockworkers vote yes to labour deal

The threat of further strikes at Canadian West Coast ports has been averted as dockworkers vote in favour of labour deal.

Marcus Hand, Editor

August 7, 2023

1 Min Read
fairview container terminal
Photo: Prince Rupert Port Authority

Members of the International Longshore and Warehouse Union Canada (ILWU Canada) have voted 74.66% in favour of the tentative agreement for a four-year labour deal agreed in late July with employers.

The agreement has already been ratified by employers under the British Columbia Maritime Employers Association (BCMEA). “The agreement was reached after five months of negotiations, conciliation and mediation, and five weeks of labour instability at B.C.’s ports,” the association commented.

Over 7,000 dockworkers in BC ports walked out on strike for 13 days at the start of July impacting billions of dollars’ worth cargo and trade. Although dockworkers went back to work two tentative agreements were rejected with the threat of more strike action impacting Canada’s largest port of Vancouver remaining.

“All supply chain stakeholders must collaborate now to ensure we do not see disruptions like this ever again. Whether in Halifax, Montreal, or the Pacific Gateway, Canadians are relying on us - employers, unions, and the federal government - to keep goods flowing and ensure supply chain stability and resilience for the future,” BCMEA said.

About the Author

Marcus Hand

Editor

Marcus Hand is the editor of Seatrade Maritime News and a dedicated maritime journalist with over two decades of experience covering the shipping industry in Asia.

Marcus is also an experienced industry commentator and has chaired many conferences and round tables. Before joining Seatrade at the beginning of 2010, Marcus worked for the shipping industry journal Lloyd's List for a decade and before that the Singapore Business Times covering shipping and aviation.

In November 2022, Marcus was announced as a member of the Board of Advisors to the Singapore Journal of Maritime Talent and Technology (SJMTT) to help bring together thought leadership around the key areas of talent and technology.

Marcus is the founder of the Seatrade Maritime Podcast that delivers commentary, opinions and conversations on shipping's most important topics.

Conferences & Webinars

Marcus Hand regularly moderates at international maritime events. Below you’ll find a list of selected past conferences and webinars.

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