Federal government intervenes in port disputes in BC and Quebec, ordering return to work and binding arbitration

Update, November 14, 2024: Operations have resumed at B.C. ports, following intervention from the government in the ongoing labour dispute. The employers and the union have been ordered back to the bargaining table for binding arbitration, however it is expected that the union will challenge the government mandate. If you have questions about how this ongoing situation might affect your operations, please get in touch. sales@canaangroup.ca

Original post, November 12:

The federal government has intervened in the ongoing labour stoppages at BC and Quebec ports, ordering a return to work and sending the disputes to binding arbitration. 

The move, announced by Labour Minister Steven MacKinnon at a press conference, follows recent failed attempts to make progress at the respective bargaining tables of the two disputes. 

“I have directed the Canada Industrial Relations Board to order that all operations and duties at the ports resume and to assist the parties to settle their collective agreements by imposing final and binding arbitration,” MacKinnon said.

Workers at container terminals across B.C. have been locked out since Nov. 4. 

The union representing roughly 1,200 dockworkers at the Port of Montreal rejected an offer from the Maritime Employers Association (MEA) on Sunday; the MEA responded by locking out workers on Sunday evening. 

If you need support navigating the ongoing uncertainty as these labour disputes search for resolution, please reach out. We’re keen to provide solutions to safeguard your logistics operations. Email us at sales@canaangroup.ca