May 8, 2019 – The B.C. Maritime Employers Association yesterday provided notification that, over the course of two days, today and Thursday, the International Longshore and Warehouse Union – Canada is planning a strike vote and all Locals have been directed to take a “yes vote.” BCMEA presumes that ILWU – Canada will receive a majority “yes vote” for its strike mandate; however, such an outcome does not mean that the Union will exercise its right to strike.

A strike could occur only if the Union:

· receives a mandate to strike;

· chooses to exercise that mandate within 60 days of obtaining it; and

· provides 72-hour strike notice.

BCMEA remains cautiously optimistic that the two sides will come to an agreement, as the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service (FMCS) is in the process of scheduling further dates. However, past history indicates that these will be uncertain times until a deal is reached. We will continue to keep our customers informed of this situation and if a strike is ultimately occurring.