RCC calls on parties to immediately return to bargaining table to end the Port Strike

Reail Council of Canada (RCC) is urging the International Longshore & Warehouse Union Canada (ILWU), the BC Maritime Employers Association (BCMEA), and the federal mediator to immediately return to the bargaining table to demonstrate good faith to Canadian consumers and businesses. 

Canada’s West Coast Ports are a critical element in our supply chain and any delay in resolving this work stoppage will have severe impacts on consumers, businesses of all sizes, and on the broader Canadian economy.

RCC repeats our earlier request for a rapid settlement. Should the parties fail to come together today, July 19, 2023, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau should then immediately recall Parliament to legislate an end to the strike, which has resulted in the closure of Canada’s west coast ports to container traffic. As this strike enters its 15th day, we remind government that in 2021, legislation was introduced to end the strike at the Port of Montreal on its second day of action, and subsequently passed on the fifth day.

Retailers also ask that Canadians be patient and kind to workers in retail stores and quick-service restaurants. Any product outages are the result of the break in the supply chain – and not the fault of retail workers.

Retail supply chain professionals are working diligently to find alternative transportation and sources of supply to ensure that goods reach Canadian stores. As the work stoppage continues, there will be impacts both on the price and supply of goods including food, medication, and other consumer products.