Employers Present ‘Final Offer’ to Foremen in Effort to Prevent New BC Port Strike
Port employers in British Columbia have put forth a “final offer” to the union representing foremen in negotiations to prevent a labor disruption. The BC Maritime Employers Association stated in a release that they believe this offer could bring negotiations to a beneficial conclusion for all parties involved. The International Longshore and Warehouse Union Local 514 has not responded to this latest offer, presented on Wednesday. Both sides have acknowledged ongoing talks facilitated by federal mediation services. The current negotiation session, which began on Oct. 29, may be extended by two days if necessary. The union, representing around 700 foremen at the ports, has a strike mandate set to expire on Nov. 2 if talks fall through.
No strike or lockout has occurred, and no official notices have been issued. However, Local 514 president Frank Morena has emphasized the limited time given the approaching expiration date of the strike mandate. Negotiations commenced last year following the expiration of the previous contract in March 2023. In September, union members voted overwhelmingly, with 96 percent in favor of strike action if deemed necessary. The core of the dispute revolves around DP World, a specific employer, and its workforce needs concerning automation. The union’s preference was to negotiate directly with DP World, leading to tensions as the Canada Industrial Relations Board mandated industry-wide negotiations.
The Board’s ruling prompted a vote among members for a strike mandate. Additionally, earlier this month, the Canada Industrial Relations Board addressed complaints of bad faith bargaining, dismissing the union’s claim while partially siding with the employers. Vancouver’s port, the largest in Canada, has faced recent disruptions, including picketing at six Metro Vancouver grain terminals in September and work stoppages at Canadian railways in the preceding month. Last year, a 13-day strike by port workers brought trade activities to a standstill.
