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Issues at the Port of Montreal continue, resulting in significant delays in the movement of cargo across this key intermodal gateway. The port is currently experiencing heavy congestion, negatively affecting operations, which has been further exacerbated by recent weather conditions.
Even bigger problems are ahead if the current labour negotiations between the port workers and the port operators fail and the union receives approval from the government to strike. The latter can only happen if a separate hearing currently in progress determines that Montreal port workers have the right to strike because their work is considered non-essential.
Hearings between the Maritime Employers Association (MEA) and the Longshormen’s Union (CUPE Local 375 in Montreal) were conducted during the first two weeks of February 2019, and are expected to continue during the months of March and April. The MEA has presented a request to maintain essential services with the Canada Industrial Relations Board (CIRB). In view of the request to maintain essential services, the parties do not have the right to strike or lockout.
For more information, contact David Lychek, Manager – Ocean & Air Services.
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