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B.C. port workers holding union rally at Jack Poole Plaza
Global News
Talks between the two sides in an ongoing port strike in British Columbia have resumed, ending a days-long stretch away from the negotiating table.
A rally is to take place in Vancouver Sunday as the strike at British Columbia’s ports stretches into its second week.
International Longshore and Warehouse Union Canada said the event supporting its workers is expected to include international labour leaders who will call for a negotiated contract settlement with the BC Maritime Employers Association.
ILWU Canada is holding the rally at 11 a.m. Sunday at Vancouver’s Jack Poole Plaza. A large turnout of supporters is anticipated including strikers and local and international labour leaders with some from the U.S., and around the world, who will echo the call for a negotiated contract settlement with the BC Maritime Employers Association.
The International Transport Workers Federation, representing 740 affiliated trade unions with 18.5 million workers from 150 countries, has voiced its support for the ILWU’s quest for a contract that reflects its members’ contributions to the Canadian economy.
“B.C. shipping companies and terminals have made record profits during the pandemic as shipping costs have tripled through changes in the economy and buying habits,” said ILWU Canada President Rob Ashton.
About 7,400 workers at more than 30 B.C. ports have been on strike since Canada Day over issues including pay and provisions related to maintenance work, contracting out and automation.
After talks stalled on Monday, the two sides were back at the negotiating table Saturday, supported by federal mediators. The association has accused the union of trying to “aggressively expand” its control of maintenance duties beyond what has been established for decades.
Business organizations and some politicians have publicly called for the federal government to bring in back-to-work legislation, but Labour Minister Seamus O’Regan has said negotiations are the way to go.
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