The International Longshore and Warehouse Union of Canada has called for a 72-hour strike at the ports of Vancouver and Prince Rupert on 1st July in protest at the delay in negotiations over the renewal of the contract that expired at the end of March.
In fact, the employers, represented by the British Columbia Maritime Employers Association (BCMEA), and the unions have not yet reached an agreement, although further negotiations to avoid a strike in the West Coast ports will be held over the next few hours.
Canadian Chamber of Commerce vice president Robin Guy said it ICC Canada was deeply disturbed by the strike announcement, pointing out that the strike would have a significant and immediate impact on the livelihoods of Canadians and the health of Canadian businesses.
Translation by Giles Foster