2023 Port Strike in BC Prompts Labour Minister to Investigate Costly Effects

Federal Labour Minister Seamus O’Regan has announced the appointment of an Industrial Inquiry Commission to investigate the root causes of B.C.’s port strike last summer.

In a statement, the federal government revealed that the port strike, which lasted just under two weeks in July, resulted from a single labour dispute and caused significant economic disruption as longshore workers picketed.

Mr. O’Regan disclosed that the commission will be led by experienced mediator Vince Ready, who previously mediated negotiations between the International Longshore and Warehouse Union and the BC Maritime Employers Association during the strike.

The statement emphasized the government’s support for collective bargaining to provide certainty to the country’s supply chains.

The labour ministry highlighted the inquiry’s objective of ensuring stability and underscored the importance of Canada’s credibility as an international trading partner when disruptions occur in the supply chains.

Mr. O’Regan stressed the need for long-term solutions for workers and businesses, with the inquiry commission expected to deliver its findings next spring.

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