B.C. port workers’ voting on tentative deal ratification

Members of the union representing thousands of workers are voting on a deal that could bring an end to B.C.’s long-running port labour dispute.

The International Longshore and Warehouse Union Canada held a vote until 6 p.m. Thursday, and will host one from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Friday.

The vote is to decide whether to ratify a new agreement recommended by negotiators.

The labour dispute between the (ILWU) and the BC Maritime Employers Association (BCMEA) has been ongoing for months, with the dispute eventually shutting down more than 30 port terminals for about two weeks.

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• B.C. port workers reject mediated agreement, gov could impose new collective agreement: O’Regan

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The vote could possibly signify the end of the labour dispute that has cost the economy billions, according to the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade.

This comes after both groups said in a joint statement issued Sunday night that they are recommending their members to ratify it.

A previous tentative deal was rejected by members, despite being recommended by the union.

Labour Minister Seamus O’Regan took to Twitter Monday and confirmed the tentative agreement, saying “our ports are operating, but this deal — made by the parties — would mean long-term stability.”

With files from Emily Marsten and Hana Mae Nassar, and Charlie Carey