Toronto, May 29, 2019
BCMEA to Lock Out ILWU Employees Effective 8:00 am May 30, however, both parties return to the bargaining table today
The British Columbia Maritime Employers Association (BCMEA) provided formal notice to the International Longshore and Warehouse Union – Canada (ILWU-Canada) today of its intention, given the strike action that is occurring in the industry, that customer members of the Association will lock out all longshore employees covered by the expired BCMEA/ILWU-Canada collective agreement effective 8:00 am on May 30.
The BCMEA did not arrive at this decision lightly, as it followed significant discussion understanding the economic impact this will have on the Canadian economy. Their preference still remains to arrive at a negotiated settlement between the parties and they are committed and available to meet with Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service (FMCS) and ILWU-Canada to achieve this end.
The BCMEA announced there were further discussions with FMCS and the Ministry of Labour Tuesday, May 28 and as a result, the parties have agreed to return to the bargaining table Wednesday, although the lockout notice has not been lifted.
As further developments occur, the BCMEA said it would advise as to the progress made.
For more information, please call David Lychek, Manager – Ocean & Air Services at (905) 882-4880, ext. 207.