B.C. port workers rally in downtown Vancouver as negotiations continue

A rally took place in Vancouver Sunday, with hundreds gathering as the strike at British Columbia’s ports stretches into its second week.

International Longshore and Warehouse Union Canada says the event at Jack Poole Plaza supporting its workers included international labour leaders who joined calls for a negotiated contract settlement with the BC Maritime Employers Association (BCMEA).

On Sunday, the port strike entered its ninth day.

About 7,400 workers at more than 30 B.C. ports have been on strike since Canada Day over issues including pay and provisions related to maintenance work, contracting out, and automation.

Huge turnout in support of longshore workers on strike in Metro Vancouver today. Unifor members including port container truck drivers were out to stand in solidarity for a fair contract. One day longer, one day stronger! #bclab #canlab #vanpoli pic.twitter.com/Ya2dxs1Ea3

— Unifor (@UniforTheUnion) July 9, 2023

Business organizations and some politicians have publicly called for the federal government to bring in back-to-work legislation. However, Labour Minister Seamus O’Regan has said negotiations are the way to go.

“We are going to stand with you in solidarity every single step of the way and we are going to fight this government if they try and legislate you back to work because no damn way are we going to let them legislate you back to work!” Sussanne Skidmore, president of the BC Federation of Labour, told the crowd Sunday.

The two sides were back at the negotiating table Saturday, supported by federal mediators, after talks stalled on Monday.

Employers say they proposed a committee and independent arbitrator to make recommendations related to key sticking points around maintenance work, but that the union rejected the idea.

Information provided by the BCMEA states the median salary for a union longshore worker is $136,000 a year, plus benefits. It notes there has been a 10 per cent wage increase over the last three years since the start of the pandemic.

The ILWU didn’t make anyone available for an interview in time for broadcast. But in a statement, the union’s president says “our members kept Canada’s economy moving during the pandemic when everyone else was told to stay home.”

“All we are asking for is a small share of these profits so workers can continue to do this work with respect and dignity,” the union president added.

The BCMEA says labour disruptions will add costs and delays to the supply chain, adding the strike is already having a negative impact on the flow of critical cargo that Canadians and the world rely on.

B.C. ports move over $800 million worth of cargo daily.