Port workers in British Columbia have been on strike since July 1, causing havoc for supply lines throughout the country. The B.C. Maritime Employers Association (BCMEA) is seeking binding arbitration to end the strike, which involves some 7,400 workers at more than 30 ports who belong to the International Longshore and Warehouse Union Canada. Their concerns include improved wages, contract workers, and the rise of automation.
The BCMEA says the strike has caused delays which are disrupting upwards of $4 billion in cargo, according to the Toronto Star. Now, maritime employers in B.C. are asking for the federal government to step in and apply binding arbitration to get the workers back on the job. Earlier this week, the Retail Council of Canada issued a release urging Prime Minister Trudeau to recall Parliament in order to legislate an end to the strike.
