ILWU Canada Rejects Mediators' Offer, CN Braces for Port Strike

Port of Vancouver (CTV News)

The International Longshore & Warehouse Union (ILWU) Canada Longshore Caucus rejected the Mediators' Recommended Terms of Settlement, citing concerns about the ability to protect their members' jobs both currently, and in the future. Their main goal remains safeguarding their jurisdiction. The union expressed dissatisfaction with the employers' handling of cost-of-living issues faced by workers in recent years, despite the significant profits earned by BCMEA's member companies. They also questioned the length of the proposed collective agreement, given the uncertainty in the world's financial markets. A news release issued by the ILWU Canada Longshore Division stated "On July 18, 2023, as of 16:30, the ILWU Canada Longshore Division will be back on the picket lines for a fair and negotiated collective agreement."

In response, Canadian National Railway started winding down international intermodal services to BC ports but assured a prompt resumption after the strike. They will increase capacity on East Coast ports to maintain trade flow. Domestic services continue unaffected. "CN remains committed to the safe and efficient movement of our customers’ goods. Where possible, we continue to take steps to help mitigate the service disruptions to Canada’s West Coast port supply chains, as well as the likelihood of related impacts across our network." CN assures their customers.

To read ILWU's press release, visit Press Release