May 26, 2019 – The International Longshore and Warehouse Union – Canada ( ILWU – Canada ) issued a notice today indicating the Union will take targeted job action on Monday, May 27, 2019 at 7am at Vancouver’s GCT terminals, Deltaport and Vanterm, however, there will be no picket lines and all ports and terminals will remain open. ILWU Canada President Rob Ashton said that “Contrary to comments made by employers to the media, all terminals will remain open for business and ILWU-Canada and its locals will not put up picket lines at this time. Our goal is to keep the ports open with minimal disruption to trade.” The BCMEA (British Columbia Maritime Employers Association) said it remains committed to the collective bargaining process having continued discussions throughout the weekend and will continue to bargain in an effort to reach a collective agreement that is in the interests of both parties. Jeff Scott, Board Chair for the BCMEA, said, "It is an unfortunate step and we are deeply concerned about the economic impact that a potential strike could have on the economic security of Canada, and the Canadian economy as a whole.” Should a work disruption occur, the impact to the Port of Vancouver alone would be significant. For context, approximately $547 million or 400,000 metric tonnes worth of trade per day would be negatively impacted. Canaan Transport will continue to monitor the situation and will advise on any changes.
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