Dear Member,
Members of the ILWU have voted against the mediated four-year agreement with the BCMEA that was recommended for ratification by the ILWU’s Bargaining Committee and Longshore Caucus last week.
This decision comes a month after the ILWU issued its first strike notice and follows a series of stop/start labour actions that have had a significant impact on transportation stakeholders and the supply chain overall.
Although the ILWU has not yet communicated its next steps, it is our understanding that the union retains its ability to provide 72-hour strike notice should it choose to do so.
In its most recent notice to stakeholders, the BCMEA has expressed strong disappointment in the results of the ratification vote and indicated that it is awaiting further direction from the Federal Government as to next steps.
We will continue to monitor this situation closely and revert to members as more information becomes available.
Sincerely,
Karen Kancens
Vice President