April 21, 2021 – Last Thursday, April 15, the Maritime Employers Association presented a counter proposal to the Longshoremen’s Union. The parties have not met since and nothing is currently scheduled in terms of further negotiations. The union, in accordance with their partial strike decision, did not work over the April 17-18 weekend. The railways indicate they are operating as planned, but there is a current backlog due to increased imports (from 2 weeks ago) and the past weekend’s strike action. Cargo originating from the U.S. Midwest is in many cases diverting to other ports. Truck productivity has increased approximately 18% as cargo is moving via road. Next week is expected to be problematic, with potential for further backlog, as six vessels are scheduled to arrive at the Port of Montreal. Canaan transport expects congestion and further delays as the union’s partial strike continues.